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Comparison Table for Glass Ionomer Restoratives
Restorative Material Manufacturer Indications Adhesion Fluoride Release Moisture Tolerant GC Fuji II LC® GC America Inc Class V erosions, abfractions, primary teeth Self-adhesive Continual recharge Fast and easy EQUIA® Forte Bulk Fill GC America Inc Class I, II and V restorations, high caries risk Self-adhesive High Moisture tolerant Geristore® Dual Cure Resin Ionomer DenMat Base, liner, subgingival restorative or cement Self-adhesive Fluoride releasing Hydrophilic GC Fuji IX GP® Extra GC America Inc Fast-setting, high translucency, durability – High – Ionolux® Glass Ionomer Voco Broad range of indications, large cavities – – – Photac™ Fil Quick Aplicap™ 3M Anterior and primary restorations Self-adhesive High – EQUIA Forte® HT Glass Ionomer GC America Inc Core buildup, Class I, II (stress and nonstress) – High – GC Fuji Automix LC GC America Inc Restorative for Class I to V cavities, core buildup Self-adhesive High Moisture tolerant IonoStar® Plus Glass Ionomer Voco Cavities, base/liner, core buildup material, and extended fissure sealing. No dentin conditioner necessary High Moisture tolerant Ketac™ Silver Aplicap™ Glass Ionomer Restorative Ketac Core build-ups, primary teeth fillings, small fillings in posterior teeth, temporaries, and a base under amalgams. Chemically bonds to enamel and dentin High Not specified
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1. GC Fuji II LC® Glass Ionomer Restorative – GC America Inc Product Description GC Fuji II LC® is a light-cured, resin-reinforced glass ionomer restorative material supplied in an easy-to-use capsule delivery system. It combines the benefits of glass ionomer chemistry with the added strength and aesthetics of light-cured composites.
Product Overview Designed for speed, simplicity, and versatility, GC Fuji II LC is ideal for Class V restorations, core build-ups, and pediatric and geriatric dentistry. It delivers superior adhesion to dentin and enamel without the need for separate bonding agents, and it tolerates slight moisture during placement. Its consistent fluoride release and radiopacity make it a reliable material for long-term restorations.
Key Features
Resin-reinforced formula for added strength and durability
Self-adhesive—no need for etching or bonding agents
Sustained, rechargeable fluoride release for caries prevention
Excellent marginal seal for reduced microleakage
Biocompatible and thermally matched to natural tooth structure
Convenient capsule system for easy handling and placement
Light-cured for fast and controlled setting
Common Applications
Class V restorations (erosions, abfractions)
Restorations in primary teeth
Core build-up material
Geriatric dentistry
Base or liner in the sandwich technique
Radiopaque restorations where visibility is important
Technical Specifications
Delivery System: Capsule
Cure Type: Light-cured
Fluoride Release: Rechargeable, long-lasting
Radiopaque: Yes
Setting Time: Fast cure with light activation
Customer Ratings Widely regarded for ease of use and clinical reliability, GC Fuji II LC earns consistent praise for its performance in moisture-compromised environments and long-term fluoride release.
Customer Feedback Clinicians appreciate the fast handling, strong bond without adhesives, and reliable outcomes in both pediatric and adult cases. Many report reduced postoperative sensitivity and strong marginal integrity over time.
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2. EQUIA® Forte Bulk Fill Restorative System – GC America Inc Product Description EQUIA® Forte is a bulk-fill, self-adhesive restorative system designed for speed, simplicity, and long-term clinical success in posterior restorations. It offers strong esthetics, excellent wear resistance, and high fluoride release, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of patient needs.
Product Overview Combining advanced glass hybrid technology with bulk-fill convenience, EQUIA® Forte is moisture-tolerant and offers reliable performance without the need for bonding agents. Its thermal expansion matches natural dentin, minimizing stress and enhancing longevity. Suitable for pediatric, geriatric, and high caries-risk patients, it serves as a smart alternative to amalgam and composites.
Key Features
Bulk-fill application for fast placement
Self-adhesive—no bonding required
Excellent wear resistance and high compressive strength
No polymerization shrinkage
Continuous high fluoride release
Moisture-tolerant for flexible handling
Thermal expansion coefficient similar to dentin
Common Applications
Class I, II, and V restorations
Alternative to amalgam or composite materials
Pediatric and geriatric restorations
Core build-ups
Restorations for special needs or high caries-risk patients
Technical Specifications
Delivery Form: Capsule refill
Cure Type: Bulk-fill, chemical/self-cured
Fluoride Release: High and sustained
Adhesion: Self-adhesive
Shrinkage: None
Moisture Tolerance: Yes
Customer Ratings Highly rated for its efficiency, durability, and ability to handle a broad range of clinical scenarios with ease.
Customer Feedback Dentists report excellent handling in moist environments and appreciate the speed and strength of the bulk-fill application. Many note improved workflow and reduced chair time, especially in pediatric and geriatric cases.
3. Geristore® Dual Cure Resin Ionomer Product Description Geristore® is a dual-cure, self-adhesive resin ionomer known for its excellent biocompatibility and versatility. It functions effectively as a base, liner, subgingival restorative, or cement, offering strong adhesion to multiple substrates including dentin, enamel, composite, porcelain, and metal.
Product Overview Designed for ease of use and long-term success, Geristore® features a dual cartridge syringe delivery and sets chemically or with light activation. Its hydrophilic nature allows for reliable placement in moist environments, while its fluoride release and radiopacity contribute to preventive and diagnostic value. Ideal for complex restorative cases involving subgingival margins or multiple materials.
Key Features
Dual-cure formula for flexible setting options
Bonds to enamel, dentin, composite, porcelain, and metal
Self-adhesive—no bonding agent required
Hydrophilic for subgingival applications
Fluoride-releasing to help prevent secondary caries
Radiopaque for easy identification on radiographs
Helps reduce post-operative sensitivity
Convenient dual cartridge syringe for precise dispensing
Common Applications
Subgingival restorations
Cavity liner or base
Cementation of restorations
Geriatric and high-risk patient restorations
Repairs involving various substrates including metal and porcelain
Technical Specifications
Cure Type: Dual-cure (light and self-cured)
Delivery System: Dual cartridge syringe
Adhesion: Self-adhesive
Radiopaque: Yes
Fluoride Release: Yes
Hydrophilic: Yes
Customer Ratings Respected for its versatility and strong bond across materials, especially in challenging subgingival or moisture-prone cases.
Customer Feedback Clinicians highlight Geristore’s ease of placement, excellent marginal seal, and consistent results across a wide range of clinical scenarios. Many note its role in minimizing post-op sensitivity and improving patient comfort.
Product Description GC Fuji IX GP® Extra is a high-performance, packable glass ionomer restorative designed for speed, strength, and sustained fluoride protection. With enhanced translucency and improved physical properties, it supports efficient restorations in high-stress areas.
Product Overview This fast-setting formulation incorporates SmartGlass™ filler technology to improve aesthetics, boost fluoride release, and reduce clinical working time. The packable consistency offers excellent handling and adaptation, making it suitable for posterior restorations, especially in pediatric and geriatric patients.
Key Features
SmartGlass™ technology for enhanced reactivity and esthetics
Sets in just 2.5 minutes to reduce chair time
High compressive strength for long-lasting restorations
Sustained fluoride release for caries prevention
Packable consistency for easy placement and contouring
Excellent wear resistance and marginal seal
Common Applications
Class I and II posterior restorations
Geriatric and pediatric restorations
High caries-risk patients
Core build-ups
Long-term provisional restorations
Technical Specifications
Set Time: 2.5 minutes
Delivery Form: Capsule
Filler Type: SmartGlass™ technology
Fluoride Release: High and continuous
Radiopaque: Yes
Consistency: Packable
Customer Ratings Favored for its durability, rapid setting, and ease of use, especially in high-volume practices and time-sensitive procedures.
Customer Feedback Users appreciate the fast set time and strong performance in load-bearing areas. It’s often praised for its handling and the added benefit of fluoride release, especially in pediatric and preventive-focused dentistry.
5. Ionolux® Glass Ionomer Restorative – Voco Product Description Ionolux® is a light-cured, resin-modified glass ionomer restorative material designed to combine the benefits of glass ionomers with enhanced esthetics and handling. It offers composite-like appearance, high fluoride release, and ease of application without the need for bonding agents or conditioners.
Product Overview This material is immediately packable after placement, does not stick to instruments, and cures in just 20 seconds per 2 mm layer. Its high radiopacity and fluoride release make it suitable for a wide range of restorative applications, including pediatric and geriatric dentistry.
Key Features
Composite-like esthetics with excellent translucency
Light-curing for fast finish (20 seconds per 2 mm layer)
Immediately packable after application
Does not stick to instruments; easy to shape
High fluoride release to minimize secondary caries
Highly radiopaque for easy identification on radiographs
No dentin conditioner or adhesive needed
Biocompatible and moisture-tolerant
Common Applications
Class III and V restorations, primarily cervical fillings and root caries
Restoration of deciduous teeth
Small Class I fillings
Temporary fillings
Core build-ups
Linings
Technical Specifications
Cure Type: Light-cured (20 seconds per 2 mm layer)
Delivery System: Capsules and powder/liquid kits
Fluoride Release: High and sustained
Radiopaque: Yes
Shades Available: A1, A2, A3, A3.5, B1
Working Time: Adjustable by light-curing
Setting Time: Individually adjustable; immediate packability
Customer Ratings Praised for its ease of use, esthetic results, and versatility in various clinical situations, especially in pediatric and geriatric cases.
Customer Feedback Clinicians appreciate the material’s non-stick handling, quick curing time, and the ability to achieve esthetic restorations without additional bonding agents. Its high fluoride release and radiopacity are also noted as significant benefits.
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6. Photac™ Fil Quick Aplicap™ Glass Ionomer Filling – 3M Product Description Photac™ Fil Quick Aplicap™ is a dual-cure, resin-modified glass ionomer filling material designed for fast, simplified restorative procedures. Ideal for pediatric, geriatric, and anterior cases, it features strong adhesion without the need for etching, priming, or bonding.
Product Overview With its self-adhesive properties and Aplicap™ capsule delivery, Photac™ Fil Quick streamlines restorative procedures while ensuring consistent handling and reproducible results. It provides excellent fluoride release, radiopacity, and biocompatibility, making it a reliable choice for minimally invasive treatments.
Key Features
Self-adhesive—no bonding, etching, or conditioning needed
Dual-cure formula for extended working time and quick set
Aplicap™ capsule system for accurate, mess-free application
Radiopaque for clear radiographic detection
High fluoride release for added protection against caries
Biocompatible and moisture-tolerant
Eliminates the need for protective varnish
Common Applications
Anterior restorations
Restorations in primary teeth
Geriatric dentistry
Temporary or emergency restorations
Small Class I and Class III restorations
Technical Specifications
Cure Type: Dual-cure (light and self-cured)
Delivery System: Aplicap™ capsule
Fluoride Release: High and continuous
Adhesion: Self-adhesive
Radiopaque: Yes
Working Time: Extended
Setting Time: Short with light cure
Customer Ratings Highly rated for pediatric and geriatric procedures due to its speed, simplicity, and reliable performance in moisture-compromised situations.
Customer Feedback Clinicians value the reduced procedural steps and consistent results. The material is frequently praised for its ease of use, especially with anxious or high-risk patients, and its reliable marginal seal.
7. EQUIA Forte® HT Glass Ionomer – GC America Inc Product Description EQUIA Forte® HT is a high-performance, bulk-fill glass hybrid restorative system offering a strong combination of durability, esthetics, and fluoride protection. It is designed for long-term restorations, particularly in patients with high caries risk or challenging clinical conditions.
Product Overview This next-generation restorative system enhances the original EQUIA Forte by delivering improved marginal integrity and wear resistance. Its high translucency and strong chemical bond to tooth structure make it ideal for both posterior and cervical restorations, including core build-ups and stress-bearing areas.
Key Features
Bulk-fill application with simplified workflow
Enhanced marginal seal to reduce microleakage
High fluoride release at the tooth-restorative interface
Strong, wear-resistant formulation for long-term durability
Ergonomic flip-top coat bottle for ease of use and reduced waste
No need for separate bonding agents
Moisture-tolerant and biocompatible
Common Applications
Class I and Class II restorations (stress and nonstress bearing)
Class V and root surface restorations
Core build-ups
Intermediate restorations
Restorations for pediatric, geriatric, and high caries-risk patients
Technical Specifications
Cure Type: Self-cured with surface coating
Delivery Form: Capsule + coat bottle system
Fluoride Release: High and sustained
Marginal Seal: Enhanced for long-term protection
Radiopaque: Yes
Application: Bulk-fill
Customer Ratings Recognized for its improved strength, handling, and esthetics, EQUIA Forte® HT receives high marks for long-term clinical reliability and efficiency.
Customer Feedback Clinicians report excellent outcomes in high-caries-risk patients and appreciate the improved wear resistance and esthetic finish. The simplified workflow and ergonomic packaging also receive consistent praise.
8. GC Fuji Automix LC Restorative Set – GC America Inc Product Description GC Fuji Automix LC is a light-cured, resin-reinforced glass ionomer restorative that combines strong adhesion, high fluoride release, and easy application in an ergonomic automix delivery system. Designed for both efficiency and clinical performance, it is ideal for a range of restorative needs.
Product Overview With its automix dispenser, GC Fuji Automix LC streamlines the restoration process by eliminating the need for etchants or adhesives. The formula offers high bond strength, minimal sensitivity, and continuous fluoride protection, making it well-suited for pediatric, geriatric, and general restorative procedures.
Key Features
Ergonomic automix delivery for easy and consistent handling
High bond strength to dentin and enamel
No etching or adhesive required
Light-cured for fast setting
Rechargable high fluoride release for long-term caries protection
Minimal post-operative sensitivity
Radiopaque and biocompatible
Common Applications
Class III and V restorations
Restorations in primary teeth
Core build-up procedures
Base or liner under composite restorations
Pediatric and geriatric restorations
Technical Specifications
Cure Type: Light-cured
Delivery System: Automix syringe
Adhesion: Self-adhesive, no etch or bond required
Fluoride Release: High and rechargeable
Radiopaque: Yes
Sensitivity: Low postoperative sensitivity
Customer Ratings Highly rated for its handling convenience, excellent bond strength, and reduction in procedural steps.
Customer Feedback Practitioners report efficient workflows and strong clinical outcomes, especially in pediatric cases. Many highlight the comfort of the automix system and the long-term benefits of fluoride release with minimal sensitivity.
9. IonoStar® Plus Glass Ionomer – Voco Product Description IonoStar® Plus is a fast-setting, high-performance glass ionomer restorative material ideal for cavity fillings, base/liner use, core build-ups, and extended fissure sealing. Its nonsticky, immediately packable consistency and direct-application capsule system ensure quick and efficient clinical use.
Product Overview Engineered for durability and aesthetics, IonoStar® Plus features high compressive strength, excellent wear resistance, and superior handling. It eliminates the need for a dentin conditioner and delivers sustained fluoride release. Its radiopacity, translucency, and fluorescence further enhance its suitability for long-term restorations in both anterior and posterior applications.
Key Features
Immediate packability for time-efficient placement
Fast 2-minute set time
High compressive strength and wear resistance for durability
No dentin conditioner required
High fluoride release for caries prevention
Radiopaque for easy diagnostics
Excellent translucency and fluorescence for natural esthetics
Compatible with various brand applicators
Nonsticky consistency improves ease of handling
Common Applications
Class I and II restorations
Base or liner under composite restorations
Core build-up material
Extended fissure sealing
Pediatric and preventive dentistry
Technical Specifications
Set Time: 2 minutes
Delivery System: Direct-application capsule
Adhesion: No dentin conditioner needed
Fluoride Release: High and sustained
Radiopaque: Yes
Aesthetic Properties: High translucency and fluorescence
Consistency: Nonsticky and packable
Customer Ratings Frequently praised for its speed, handling, and long-term strength, especially in high-volume and pediatric practices.
Customer Feedback Clinicians highlight the easy handling, fast set time, and smooth application. Many appreciate its compatibility with multiple applicator brands and the added esthetic value of its translucency and fluorescence.
10. Ketac™ Silver Aplicap™ Glass Ionomer Restorative Product Description Ketac™ Silver Aplicap™ is a silver-reinforced glass ionomer restorative material designed for core build-ups and posterior restorations. It offers high fluoride release, strong adhesion to tooth structures, and excellent thermal and electrical insulating properties. The material is delivered via the Aplicap™ capsule system, ensuring consistent mixing and easy application.
Product Overview This restorative material combines the benefits of glass ionomer cements with the added strength of silver reinforcement. It is suitable for various clinical applications, including core build-ups, primary teeth fillings, small posterior restorations, temporary fillings, and as a base under amalgams. The absence of amalgam in its composition makes it a metal-free alternative for restorations.
Key Features
Silver-reinforced for enhanced strength and durability
High, sustained fluoride release for caries prevention
Excellent adhesion to enamel and dentin without the need for undercuts
Superior thermal and electrical insulating properties
Delivered in Aplicap™ capsules for accurate and consistent mixing
Contains no amalgam, offering a metal-free restorative option
Common Applications
Core build-ups
Fillings in primary teeth
Small posterior restorations
Temporary fillings
Base under amalgam restorations
Technical Specifications
Delivery System: Aplicap™ capsules
Composition: Silver-reinforced glass ionomer
Fluoride Release: High and sustained
Radiopacity: Yes
Setting Reaction: Acid-base self-cure
Thermal and Electrical Insulation: Excellent
Customer Ratings Ketac™ Silver Aplicap™ is well-regarded for its strength, ease of use, and reliable performance in various restorative procedures, particularly in cases requiring enhanced durability and fluoride release.
Customer Feedback Dental professionals appreciate the material’s ease of handling, consistent mixing provided by the Aplicap™ system, and its effectiveness in core build-ups and posterior restorations. The high fluoride release and insulating properties are also noted as significant benefits.
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