No abstract

Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are mostly used in restorative dentistry. Their efficacy is enhanced as compared to other direct restorative materials because they release various ions like fluoride (F -), strontium (Sr +2 ) and calcium (Ca +2 ) when they are exposed to an acidic environment. Newer GICs often have Sr ) have a synergistic effect on the remineralization process. These elements are not dependent on each other. Either one has an effect on remineralization. A combination of Sr +2 and F -might provide more benefits than either of these elements individually. An attempt has been made in this article to discuss the composition, setting reaction and bonding mechanism of GIC with the tooth surface and to cover the effects of release of Sr +2 and F -ions from GIC on the tooth structure.