RMGICs

RMGICs, or resin-modified glass ionomer cements, are dental cements that combine conventional glass ionomer chemistry with light- or dual-curing resin components. They typically contain fluoroaluminosilicate glass and polyalkenoic acids, plus methacrylate monomers such as HEMA that enable resin polymerization when light is applied. The material sets by both an acid-base reaction characteristic of glass ionomer cements and a resin polymerization reaction, allowing it to cure in damp environments.

Properties of RMGICs include fluoride release over time, potential benefits for caries prevention, and chemical bonding to tooth structure. The resin component improves early strength, handling, and polish, and the material can be light-cured, chemically cured, or dual-cured depending on the product. RMGICs tend to be more forgiving of moisture during initial setting than conventional GICs and can bond to dentin and enamel through the GIC component.

Indications for use cover both restorative and luting applications. They are employed for restorations in primary and permanent teeth, including many Class I–V lesions, particularly when moisture control is difficult or fluoride release is desirable. They also serve as bases or liners and as luting cements for indirect restorations in pediatric and select adult cases.

Limitations and considerations include wear resistance that is generally lower than resin composites in high-stress posterior restorations, potential color stability concerns, and longer-term durability being superior in some situations to conventional GICs but inferior to some full-coverage resins. Handling requires adherence to product-specific recommendations, including curing time and moisture control during placement.