Recent Advances in Glass Ionomer Cements

Since the development of glass-ionomer materials in the early 1970s, they have proved to be of value as the material of choice for diverse yet distinctly typical procedures ranging from restoration to rehabilitation. It is the only material presently available that can be regarded as bioactive, or therapeutic because it has the potential for encouraging remineralization of surrounding tooth structure and has been shown to be bioactive in relation to bone. Various advances have been made in Glass ionomer cements to improve the basic properties of the cements, keeping in mind the biocompatibility and its bonding with tooth structure. This book is an attempt to overview different advances in glass ionomer cements. An understanding of advances is essential for the optimal incorporation of these materials into common restorative procedures.