Clinical placement of modern glass-ionomer cements

The main advantages of glass-ionomer cement are its ionic exchange with dentin and enamel and its continuous fluoride release, which acts as an effective anticariogenic agent. The new dual-curing (light-activated) cements have enhanced physical properties and excellent esthetics, so the situations in which they can be placed as a complete restoration are greatly increased. If the occlusal load is too great to use glass-ionomer cement alone, the dual-curing cements are ideal for the lamination technique, in which the cement is used as a dentinal substitute and is covered with composite resin. This paper discusses the clinical placement techniques required to ensure success with either technqiue.