An evaluation of a rapid setting glass ionomer cement in general dental practice

Forty-five general dental practitioners evaluated the clinical handling properties and performance of a newly formulated glass ionomer cement of the powder/water type. Seven hundred and ninety restorations were placed and 457 were reviewed after seven months. This formulation set rapidly. Approximately 95 per cent of the restorations performed well over the period of assessment. The results of this trial were compared with those of a trial on an earlier glass ionomer cement. The main advantage of the new formulation was the improved handling properties, notably the speed of set. Misuse of the material was the major factor responsible for poor clinical performance.