A national survey on the use of glass-ionomer cements

This study was conducted to determine why and how glass-ionomer cements are being used by general dentists. Data were collected by a mail survey sent to a random sample of approximately 1000 general dentists in the United States. The results showed that 94% of the respondents currently use or have used glass ionomers. The primary uses (in order of popularity) are: 1) as a base or liner, 2) as a luting cement, and 3) as a crown foundation. Eighty-two percent of the respondents who use glass-ionomer luting cements reported some postoperative tooth sensitivity, but a slightly larger proportion (85%) reported postoperative sensitivity with other cements.