Comparison of the sealing ability of different types of glass ionomer cements in temporary restoration

Introduction: Glass ionomer cement has been used for temporary restoration; however, several formulations are available. Objective: The aim of this study was compare the linear leakage of different types of glass ionomer cement – R, F, N and C. Material and methods: Forty-four third molars were used and prepared with standardized class I cavity preparations. By using gutta-percha, the cavity height was standardized in 5 mm. The samples were divided into 4 experimental groups (R, N, F and C), and 2 control groups (positive – not restored, and negative – restored using resin). The teeth were waterproofed and immersed in 2% methylene blue. After 7 days, they were sectioned and the measurement of the dye leakage was performed by stereomicroscopy (40X) using a calibrated periodontal probe. Results: Data were analysed by Kruskal Wallis and Dunn tests. There was statistically significant differences (p = 0.002) between R and C, and R and N glass ionomer groups. C and N glass ionomer groups were similar. F glass ionomer group was similar to all other groups. Conclusion: It can be concluded that different types of glass ionomer formulations can influence the peripheral sealing of the restorative material. R glass ionomer was the most effective, while C and N glass ionomers were the least ones.