Dimitrios Dionysopoulos

Glass ionomer cements as alternative restorative materials in dental practice

Abstract
The use of dental amalgam fillings has declined due to environmental, health, and aesthetic concerns. This shift was reinforced by the Minamata Convention, signed in 2013, which aims to reduce global mercury (Hg) pollution. The Convention encourages reduced amalgam use and mandates the adoption of measures like amalgam separators and capsule packaging to mitigate Hg release. Glass ionomer cements (GICs) have emerged as a viable alternative for specific restorative applications traditionally dominated by amalgam. GICs offer benefits such as fluoride release, biocompatibility, and chemical adhesion, but their mechanical properties, including low fracture toughness and susceptibility to moisture during setting, remain limitations. Efforts to enhance GIC properties have focused on innovative techniques such as radiant heat treatments using LEDs or lasers, ultrasonic energy application, and calcium chloride (CaCl₂) solution immersion. Radiant heat accelerates the setting reaction, enhancing surface hardness and compressive strength while reducing solubility. Ultrasonic treatment improves mixing and reaction kinetics, reduces voids, and enhances mechanical strength without significant temperature increases. Similarly, immersion in CaCl₂ solutions increases surface hardness and wear resistance by facilitating cross-linking during the setting phase. These approaches have shown promise in laboratory studies, improving GIC performance and durability. Despite encouraging in vitro findings, clinical evidence is limited. Further in vivo studies are necessary to validate the efficacy and safety of these modifications in enhancing GIC properties, potentially positioning them as a durable alternative to amalgam in challenging clinical scenarios.

Keywords: Dental amalgam, glass ionomer cements, properties, restorative materials, thermocuring.

Dr. Dimitrios Dionysopoulos is Associate Professor in the Department of Operative Dentistry of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He was born in Thessaloniki and was graduated from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Faculty of Dentistry with the degree of DDS and acquired his MSc in Operative Dentistry. Later he received his PhD degree entitled “In vitro comparative study on cariostatic effect of contemporary fluoride-releasing materials for conservative restorations”. He has carried out a wide research and has many publications (over 100) in scientific journals. He is an editorial member and reviewer in various international journals, associate editor in the Restorative Dentistry & Endodontics and Stoma journals and member of professional and scientific societies. He is a dental clinician and owner of private dental practice. His primary areas of research include Operative Dentistry, Preventive Dentistry, Dental Materials, Lasers in Dentistry and Restorative Dentistry.