Comparative Evaluation of Fluoride Release from Three Glass Ionomer Cements – An in vitro Study

Aim: The study aimed to measure the amount of fluoride released from fluoride containing materials. Zirconia reinforced glass ionomer cement (Zirconomer, SHOFU INC), high density glass ionomer cement (KetacTM Molar, 3MTM ESPETM) and packable posterior glass ionomer restorative material (GC Fuji IX GP) were used in the study.

Methodology: Thirty samples of 2 mm length × 2 mm width × 2 mm height were prepared from each material using a custom made Teflon mould. The amount of fluoride released was measured after 7 hrs, 14 hrs, 24 hrs, 48 hrs, 5th day, 10th day, 15th day and 20th day of immersion in artificial saliva using Ion Specific Electrode (ELIT 9801). The results obtained were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test.

Results: Ketac molar exhibited maximum release of fluoride followed by Zirconomer and Fuji IX. Significant statistical difference was observed in fluoride release of different materials after 14 hrs, 24 hrs, 5th, 10th and 20th day (p<0.05).

Conclusion: All materials used in the present study released fluoride, but a higher rate of fluoride release was observed in packable posterior glass ionomer material compared to zirconia reinforced glass ionomer material and high density glass ionomer material.