Ionomers are dental materials that come in two main types: glass ionomers and resin ionomers. They serve various purposes in restorative dentistry, particularly in filling cavities, with each type having its unique characteristics and applications.
Glass ionomers are tooth-colored materials composed of acrylic acids and fine glass powders. These materials are commonly used for filling cavities, especially on the root surfaces of teeth. One notable benefit of glass ionomers is their ability to release a small amount of fluoride, which can be advantageous for patients at high risk of tooth decay. Additionally, when preparing a tooth for a glass ionomer filling, less tooth structure needs to be removed compared to other types of fillings, potentially resulting in a smaller restoration. However, glass ionomers have a lower resistance to fracture, making them suitable primarily for small non-load-bearing fillings, such as those between teeth or on the roots of teeth.
Resin ionomers are also crafted from glass filler, acrylic acids, and acrylic resin. Like glass ionomers, they find application in small, non-load-bearing fillings, especially those located between teeth or on the root surfaces of teeth. Resin ionomers offer low to moderate resistance to fracture.
Both glass and resin ionomers share the advantage of mimicking the natural color of teeth. They are well-tolerated by patients, with allergic responses being rare. However, it's important to note that ionomers may experience higher wear when placed on chewing surfaces and do not possess the natural translucency of enamel.
If you require dental care involving ionomers or have any questions about these materials, please don't hesitate to contact Sherbourne Dental Associates at (416) 929-6707 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mazahreh. Our dental practice is conveniently located at 105-600 Sherbourne Street in Toronto, ON, and we are here to address your dental needs.
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