Clinical performance and caries inhibition of resin-modified glass ionomer cement and amalgam restorations

Resin-modified glass ionomer cements may prevent dental cavities. These cements are used in dental fillings. Forty children with at least two cavities received resin-modified glass ionomer cement in one tooth and a traditional amalgam filling in the other. They were followed for up to three years. When the teeth were finally lost, examination revealed that those with a resin-modified glass ionomer cement had less enamel demineralization. This process is the precursor to cavity formation.