A COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF TRADITIONAL GLASS IONOMER CEMENT AND A NEW HYBRID RESTORATIVE MATERIAL: GIOMER

Abstract

Background: Since their introduction in the 1970s, glass ionomer cements (GICs) have gained popularity in clinical dentistry because of their fluoride release, biocompatibility, and adherence to tooth structure. However, their implementation in high-stress-bearing locations, such posterior restorations, is limited by their comparatively weak mechanical qualities, especially regarding compressive and flexural strength.

Objective: To evaluate and compare the compressive strength of conventional glass ionomer cement and a new hybrid restorative material, Giomer.

Materials and Methods: Twenty cylindrical samples of Giomer and standard GIC (n=20 each group) were used in an in vitro investigation. The materials were manufactured using standardised stainless-steel moulds (6 mm height × 4 mm diameter) in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. Prior to testing, all specimens were kept at 37°C for a day in distilled water. A universal testing equipment was used to determine compressive strength at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Statistical analysis was performed using the independent sample t-test with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The mean compressive strength of Giomer (128.6 ± 7.3 MPa) was significantly higher than that of conventional GIC (76.4 ± 5.8 MPa) with p < 0.001.

Conclusion: Compared to traditional glass ionomer cement, Giomer has a much higher compressive strength. This implies that for regions that experience significant occlusal loads, Giomer could be a better restorative material.