Short-term clinical evaluation of a resin-modified glass-ionomer luting cement

Objectives: Resin-reinforced glass-ionomer cements were developed by adding resin components to conventional glass-ionomer cement. This improved physical properties and bonding characteristics. FujiCEM is the first paste-paste-type resin-modified glass-ionomer luting cement that enables consistent mixture. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term clinical performance of FujiCEM, which was used for final cementation of indirect restorations, such as inlays, crowns, and fixed partial dentures. Method and materials: A total of 290 restorations (165 crowns, 71 inlays, 15 onlays, 36 fixed partial dentures, 3 implant superstructures) were placed in 268 patients (137 males, 131 females) with a mean age of 54.4 ± 13.0 years. Restorations were luted with FujiCEM mixed for 10 seconds after the teeth surfaces were treated with a conditioner containing 10% citric acid and 2% ferric chloride for 20 seconds, washed, and dried with gentle air flow. Out of the investigated 337 teeth, 99 (29%) teeth were vital, and 238 (71%) were nonvital. These restorations were followed up for a period of 21 months. All the restorations were evaluated for postoperative sensitivity, secondary caries, gingival condition, and pocket depth. Results: No clinical failures (eg, dislodgment, secondary caries, irritation of soft tissue, and postoperative sensitivity) were observed. Conclusion: FujiCEM had promising clinical performance with inlays, crowns, onlays, fixed partial dentures, and implant superstructures at 21 months after service. Keywords: clinical performance, dental material, glass ionomer, luting cement, resin-modified glass-ionomer cement, survival rate