Comparative Evaluation of Microleakage of Fiber-reinforced Glass Ionomer Cement and Conventional Glass Ionomer Cement Restorations Immersed in Three Different Beverages: In Vitro Study

Aim:The aim of the study was to compare and evaluate the microleakage of fiber-reinforced glass ionomer cement (GIC) and conventional glass ionomer cement restorations immersed in three different beverages.Materials and methods: A total of 96 human exfoliating deciduous molars were selected which were cleaned and disinfected.Standardized Class V cavity preparations were done and buccal surface were restored with experimental fiber-reinforced glass ionomer cement (Exp-FRGIC), lingual surface were restored with Type II conventional GIC.They were divided into four groups according to the test beverage.The samples were subjected to various immersion regimes and evaluated for microleakage under stereomicroscope.Results: Intragroup comparison for (Exp-FRGIC) showed significant microleakage when immersed in fresh fruit juice at high immersion whereas intragroup comparison in conventional GIC, showed highest microleakage with soft drink.Intergroup comparison of (Exp-FRGIC) in high immersion regime, showed more microleakage with specimen immersed in soft drink followed by fresh fruit juice.Conclusion: It can thus be concluded that the three beverages used in the study affected the microleakage of both restorative materials significantly.Clinical significance: Increasing usage of fruit juices in the pediatric diet has a definite impact on the progression of caries and it directly or indirectly affects the quality of restorations placed in the oral cavity.