Fluoride release from glass ionomer cement for secondary caries prevention

Fluoride release from glass ionomer cement is a property of this dental restorative material, which slowly releases fluoride ions over time into the surrounding tooth structure and oral environment. This fluoride release is achieved through diffusion and dissolution mechanisms regulated by the material’s composition, setting chemistry, and interaction with oral fluids[2][1][3]. Released fluoride ions help prevent secondary caries (recurrent tooth decay) by inhibiting bacterial metabolism within dental biofilms and promoting remineralization of adjacent enamel and dentin[2][3]. This effect is not attributed to interaction with a molecular target but through local increases in fluoride concentration around the restoration. The release profile typically features an initial higher-rate "early washout," followed by a sustained low-level release[1][2][3]. Glass ionomer cements are not themselves therapeutic targets but engineered materials intended to leverage fluoride’s well-known protective effects in dentistry.

Other names

Glass ionomer cement fluoride releaseGIC fluoride releaseFluoride-releasing dental restorative materials