Ionomer cement
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Ionomer cement is a tooth-colored, water-based dental cement that chemically bonds to enamel and dentin and releases fluoride. Use it for cementing crowns and bands, lining and basing, and conservative restorations. Clinicians choose it for moisture tolerance, caries-inhibiting fluoride release, and tooth-like thermal behavior—delivering dependable retention and easy handling across routine clinical procedures.
Description
Ionomer cement, often called glass ionomer cement, is a tooth-colored, water-based dental material made by reacting fluoro-alumino-silicate glass with polyacrylic acid. The acid–base reaction forms a strong, chemically bonding matrix that adheres to enamel and dentin without separate adhesive. It releases fluoride over time, helping resist recurrent caries, and has a thermal expansion similar to tooth structure for long-term marginal integrity. Available as powder–liquid systems or pre-measured capsules, it comes in types for luting, lining/basing, and restorative use.
Key features and benefits:
• Chemical bond to tooth structure for reliable retention
• Sustained fluoride release for caries prevention and reduced sensitivity
• Tooth-like thermal expansion and biocompatible setting chemistry
• Radiopacity for easy postoperative evaluation
• High wettability and hydrophilicity for use in slightly moist fields
• Shade options to blend with natural dentition
Typical uses and industry applications:
• Luting crowns, bridges, inlays/onlays, and orthodontic bands (Type I)
• Liners and bases under composite or amalgam restorations (Type III)
• Cervical lesions, atraumatic restorative treatment, and pediatric restorations (Type II)
• Core build-ups in low-stress areas and temporary restorations
How it compares:
• Versus zinc phosphate: lower post-operative sensitivity and fluoride release.
• Versus resin cement: easier moisture tolerance and chemical adhesion, though lower ultimate strength.
• Versus polycarboxylate cement: better fluoride delivery and esthetics.
Quality and selection notes:
• Luting grades prioritize flow and film thickness; restorative grades emphasize wear resistance.
• Many dental markets reference ISO 9917 for water-based dental cements; buyers should request conformity documents and test data where required.
• Resin-modified versions add light-curing and higher early strength; conventional versions offer maximum fluoride release and chemical simplicity.
Choose ionomer cement when you need dependable adhesion, fluoride benefits, and user-friendly handling for everyday crown cementation, liners, and conservative restorations.
