Steps of GIC Restoration | Procedure & Steps Explained

GIC Restorative

Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) is a direct restoration technique in which a glass ionomer cement is used to restore teeth with dental caries, abrasion, erosion or minor fractures. It is commonly used due to its chemical bonding to tooth structure and its ability to release fluoride that is effective in preventing recurrent caries.

Indications

• Cervical (Class V) carious/non-carious lesions
• Root surface caries
• Class III restorations
• Low stress small class 1 restorations.
• In Primary Teeth, the restoration is a term for the filling.
• Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART)
• Under composite restorations (sandwich technique)

Contraindications

• Posterior restorations that place high forces on the tooth structure.

• Permanent tooth large class II restoration
• Regions of high occlusal forces
• When high aesthetics are needed (conventional GIC).

Advantages

• Mineral content of enamel and dentin
• The release and recharge of the fluoride is continuous.
• Biocompatible with the pulp
• Minimal cavity preparation
• Good marginal seal
• CTE similar to natural tooth.
• Improved moisture tolerance when placed

Types of GIC dental restoration

• Traditional Glass Ionomer Cement (CGIC).
• The cement that is commonly used to bond composite is Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Cement (RMGIC).
• High-Viscosity Glass Ionomer Cement
• Metal-Reinforced Glass Ionomer Cement (Cermet)

GIC restoration steps

The steps of GIC restoration are:

Step 1: Patient Assessment

• Look at the tooth closely and take a look at the x-rays.
• Verify that GIC is correct restorative material.
• Obtain informed consent.

Step 2: Shade Selection

• Choose the right shade prior to isolating the tooth; particularly for anterior restorations.

Step 3: Local Anaesthesia

• If deep cavity or sensitive, use local anaesthetic.

Step 4: Isolation

• Isolate the tooth with a rubber dam (preferred) or cotton rolls and saliva ejector.
• Maintain a dry and clean operating field.

Step 5: Cavity Preparation

• Conservatively remove infected and unsupported tooth structure.
• Ensure as much healthy tooth tissue as possible is retained.
• Mechanical retention is not normally necessary as GIC will chemically bond to the tooth.

Step 6: Cavity Conditioning

• Apply 10-20% polyacrylic acid for 10-20 seconds.
• Rinse out well with water.
• Pat dry the cavity gently, without over drying (the dentin should be slightly moist).

Step 7: Mixing the GIC

• Add powder according to the manufacturer's instructions for mixing with liquid.
• Get a smooth and shiny texture.
• Utilize within the working time of the material.

Step 8: Placement

• Pour the blended GIC into the hole.
• Use an appropriate instrument to adapt material appropriately.
• Do not include air bubbles.

Step 9: Contouring

• Form the restoration to match the anatomy of the tooth.
• Trim off surplus material before the material has set.

Step 10: Initial Setting

• Leave the GIC undisturbed following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 11: Finishing and Polishing

• Use fine finishing burs or abrasive discs to complete the restoration.
• Polish after complete maturation (or as recommended for the particular GIC used).

Step 12: Surface Protection

• Immediately finish with a protective varnish or resin treatment.
• This helps to avoid moisture pollution and helps to avoid drying up in the initial setting period.

Step 13: Occlusal Check

• Use articulating paper to check patient's bite.
• Make any adjustments to any early contacts.

Step 14: Postoperative Instructions

• Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours (for conventional GIC).
• Maintain good oral hygiene.
• Please come back for the follow-up appointments, if recommended.

Conclusion

Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) is a conservative and reliable restorative technique that has good biocompatibility, chemical adhesion to tooth structure, and fluoride release. It is especially recommended in cases of cervical lesions, root caries, primary teeth and for high dental caries risk patients. GIC is an excellent restorative material in appropriately selected clinical cases even though it is not as strong or aesthetic as composite resin, but it is easily used, requires very limited preparation of the teeth and has a cariostatic property. To ensure long-term success, selecting an appropriate case, isolation, and the proper clinical technique is critical.

GIC Restoration in India GetWellGo

GetWellGo is regarded as a leading supplier of healthcare services. We help our foreign clients choose the best treatment locations that suit their needs both financially and medically.

We offer:

• Complete transparency
• Fair costs.
• 24-hour availability.
• Medical E-visas
• Online consultation from recognized Indian experts.
• Help in choosing the Best Hospitals in India for GIC Restoration.
• Expert dentists with proven results in success. 
• Assistance during and after the course of treatment.
• Language Support
• Travel and Accommodation Services
• Case manager assigned to every patient to provide seamless support in and out of the hospital like appointment booking
• Local SIM Cards
• Currency Exchange
• Arranging Patient’s local food

FAQs

Where is GIC commonly used?

• It's frequently applied to primary teeth, atraumatic restorative treatment (ART), as a base or liner for composite restorations, cervical lesions, and class V.

Does GIC give off fluoride?

• Yes. GIC gradually releases fluoride which promotes remineralization of the tooth structure and decreases the likelihood of new caries.

What is the time period of a GIC restoration?

• Good oral hygiene habits, regular dentist check-ups and proper placement will help a GIC last for several years depending on its location and the forces of chewing it has to take.

Is GIC more advantageous than composite?

• While GIC is available with certain properties that are beneficial for fluoride release, chemical bonding, and high risk patients, composite resin has certain properties which make it more advantageous for stress-bearing areas and highly visible areas for chemical and mechanical resistance and aesthetics.

Does GIC restoration hurt?

• No. The procedure does not usually cause pain. Sometimes local anaesthetic is necessary, particularly for deeper cavities, or if the teeth are sensitive.

After a GIC restoration what precautions should be taken?

• Do not chew hard or sticky foods on the restored tooth for the first 24 hours (conventional GIC), keep good oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups.