A new resin-reinforced glass ionomer cement for use with orthodontic attachments

Resin cements are commonly used to bond orthodontic appliances. However, etching enamel and bracket bonding is an extremely technique-sensitive process. Moisture and saliva control, particularly in the gingival third of posterior teeth, is difficult and time-consuming, but is critical to success. Recently, a light-cure resin-reinforced glass ionomer cement was shown to perform with equal bonding capacity. This is accomplished in a wet field, without etching, and with the glass ionomer feature of fluoride release. Now, a self-cure resin-reinforced glass ionomer cement has been introduced. The self-cure cement will provide equal clinical success in areas where light curing is not possible or desired. This article compares traditional resin cements and glass ionomer cements for bonding orthodontic appliances.