Comparison of high viscosity glass ionomer cement to composite restorations placed in primary teeth under general anesthesia

Abstract

AimThis study aimed to compare survivability between high viscosity glass ionomer cements (HVGIC) and resin composites in the restoration of teeth under general anesthesia. MethodsA total of 258 restorations in 87 patients treated under general anesthesia (without rubber dam) were followed up over a period of two years. Structural failure (breakage or loss of restoration) and secondary caries were recorded as present/absent dichotomies. Failures were recorded at the follow intervals of 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Kaplan Meir survival curves and Cox-Mendel regression models were developed to predict survivability. ResultsOverall failure of both HVGIC (58.5%) and resin composites (60.8%) was high There was no significant differences overall for the two year survivability of either HVGIC or resin composite restorations. However HVGIC restorations placed in anterior teeth were likely to fracture significantly faster than resin composites. While HVGIC restorations had lower incidence of secondary caries than composite the differences were not statistically significant. ConclusionThere is no significant difference in survivability of HVGIC when compared to resin composite as a restorative material when placed in primary teeth under general anesthesia without the use of a rubber dam.