Where is it used?
The light-curing glass ionomer is stronger than the classic one and hardens at the doctor’s command, which is convenient when working in hard-to-reach areas. It is used for cervical defects and wedge-shaped abrasion, as an insulating pad under a composite, in dental treatment for children and in situations where it is difficult to achieve ideal dryness. The release of fluoride reduces the risk of secondary caries along the edge of the filling.
What is tooth restoration
Restoration is the restoration of the shape, function and appearance of a tooth using composite materials directly in the oral cavity, in one visit. Unlike a crown, it does not require grinding of the entire tooth and preserves a maximum of its own tissues.
A separate task is the restoration of the stump: when only the walls or the root remain of the tooth, the doctor creates a foundation on which a crown is subsequently placed.
How to restore the stump
- composite without support - when strong tooth walls are preserved
- anchor pin with composite - a metal pin in the channel as a support
- fiberglass pin with composite - elasticity is close to the tooth tissue, the risk of root splitting is lower
- cast stump inlay - in case of significant destruction, manufactured in the laboratory
Materials
Light-curing composites provide better aesthetics and strength, while glass ionomer cements provide chemical adhesion to dentin and fluoride release. Glass ionomer is often used as a spacer under a composite, for cervical defects and in pediatric practice.