Paediatric dentistry: Glass ionomer or giomer?

Abstract

Introduction: Giomers are composed of PRG fillers which in turn contain some ions, in addition to fluoride, which are beneficial to enamel so, it could be used for remineralization. Glass ionomer also contains fluoride and has been a commonly used material for many years. Objective: to analyze information about its chemical composition, physical properties, chemical properties and application of S-PRG technology in comparison with glass ionomer. Methodology: articles were searched in PubMed, Science Direct, Springer and EBSCO. Terms such as S-PRG OR GIOMER, S-PRG AND prevention, glass ionomer AND pediatric dentistry were used. Results: S-PRG has a pre-reactive glass ionomer layer containing reactive ions that acts in contact with water and saliva, thus releasing ions that promote remineralization, bacterial control, etc. It has lower setting shrinkage compared to some ionomers and allows remineralization around the restoration and can be used as a restorative material for primary and permanent teeth. Glass ionomer has an acid-base reaction. By bonding glass ionomer filler to resins, it improves their properties, is successful in the presence of secondary caries and is well accepted as a restorative material after selective removal of carious tissue. Conclusion: Both materials have fluoride releasing and recharging capabilities as well as restorative properties. However, giomer has better esthetic advantages. Further studies are required because giomers are relatively new.