Novel GIC System with Superior Mechanical Performances

Objectives: The objective of this study was to develop a novel high-strength and highly-wear-resistant glass-ionomer cement (GIC) system and evaluate the mechanical strengths and wear-resistance of the formed cements. Methods: Poly(alkenoic acid)s were synthesized via an advanced atom-transfer radical polymerization technique. The purified polymers were then used to formulate the light-cured GIC with Fuji II LC glass powders. Specimens were fabricated in molds at 23 oC and conditioned in distilled water at 37 oC for 24 h prior to testing. Fuji II LC cement was used as control and prepared per manufacturer's instruction. Compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, flexural strength, hardness, fracture toughness and wear resistance of the cements were evaluated. The sample sizes were n = 6-8 for each test. Results: The experimental cement showed significantly higher mechanical properties, i.e., 53% in compressive strength, 50% in compressive modulus, 125% in diametral tensile strength, 95% in flexural strength, 21% in fracture toughness and 96% in hardness, higher than Fuji II LC. The experimental cement was only 5.4% of the abrasive and 6.4% of the attritional wear depths of Fuji II LC. Conclusion: It appears that this novel experimental cement is a clinically attractive dental restorative and may be potentially used for high-wear and high-stress-bearing site restorations.