What kind of restoration material is best recommended for root caries, especially where isolation is a problem?

This question was submitted to us by a general dentist: What kind of restoration material is best recommended for root caries, especially where isolation is a problem?

Dr. Jacinta Santos, Assistant Professor of Restorative Dentistry, Schulich School of Dentistry at Western University, has provided this quick initial response.

Drafted by Alexandra Rabalski, JCDA Oasis Intern

In a root caries procedure, lack of dentin and poor isolation may present restoration challenges. Resin-modified glass-ionomer (RMGI) is a restorative material that can be used effectively in this situation.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that RMGIs:

• Have very good retention over time (due it’s chemical and mechanical adhesion)
• Present low polymerization shrinkage
• Is less adversely affected by moisture
• Release fluoride to the dental structure

References

Sidhu, S. (2010). Clinical evaluations of resin-modified glass-ionomer restorations. Dental Materials, 26; 7-12.