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Q: What are ionomers?
A: Ionomers are materials used for filling cavities. Among their attributes is the fact that they mimic the color of a tooth, although they do not have the translucence of enamel. Glass and resin are two different types of ionomers.
Glass ionomers are made of a mixture of acrylic acids and fine glass powders that are used to fill cavities, particularly those that are on the roots of teeth. Glass ionomers can be created to release a tiny amount of fluoride in the mouths of those people who are at high risk for decay. The dentist, when using a glass ionomer for a filling, may not need to remove as much of the tooth structure as he would if he was using an amalgam. Glass ionomers are generally used to fill small areas of decay and are used usually in areas that don't need to withstand heavy chewing pressure.
Resin ionomers are made from glass fillers with acrylic acids and acrylic resin. They also are used in areas that are not overly stressed by chewing pressure, generally between the teeth. Talk with your dentist about whether glass or resin ionomers are appropriate to your treatment.
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