Glass Ionomer Cement
Also written as: GIC — Glass Ionomer Cement
A tooth-coloured dental restorative and luting material that bonds chemically to tooth structure and releases fluoride.
Full Definition
Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is a water-based dental material formed by the acid–base reaction between fluoroaluminosilicate glass powder and polyacrylic acid. It adheres chemically to enamel, dentine, and cementum without the need for separate bonding agents, and it releases fluoride over time, providing a degree of caries protection. GIC is used for restorations (particularly in deciduous teeth and cervical lesions), as a lining or base beneath other restorative materials, as a luting cement for crowns and bridges, and as a fissure sealant. Editors must distinguish it from resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI), which has additional resin components.
Usage
Usage note: The abbreviation GIC is widely used in dental records. Editors should expand on first use in formal documents. Do not confuse with RMGI (resin-modified glass ionomer), which has distinct properties and indications.
In Context
- "Glass ionomer cement was placed as a restorative material in the carious lesion of the lower left deciduous molar." — Paediatric dental treatment note
- "A layer of glass ionomer cement was used as a base to protect the pulp before composite placement." — Restorative operative note