Compomers

Compomers:

Also Known as Polyacid-modified resin composites

Dental compomers are materials which are used in dentistry as restorative material. They were introduced in the early 1990s as a hybrid of two other dental materials: dental composites and glass ionomer cement.

According to Philips Science of Dental Materials, Compomer is a polyacid -modified composite made by incorporating glass particles of GIC in water free polyacid liquid monomer with appropriate initiator.

INDICATIONS:

• For restorations in low stress–bearing areas in Class III and Class V cavities.
• For cementing prosthesis with a metallic substrate

The rationale for using this material is the integration of the fluoride-releasing capability of glass ionomers with the durability of resin composites.

Compomers are generally available in the form of a paste dispensing it in :

• Capsules
• Syringes
• Powder/Liquid Form

Bonding Mechanism:

Compomer restorative materials requires to be etched prior the appliaction of a dentin bonding agent prior to their placement because they do not contain water, which could make them self adhesive, like conventional GIC or hybrid ionomer.

ADVANTAGES:

AESTHETICS:

• Compomers are considered high in providing aesthetics to the tooth structure.

HANDLING OF COMPOMERS:

• They are easy to handle during restorative procedures.

RELEASE OF FLUORIDE:

Compomers release fluoride ions, like GIC. The level of this fluoride release however is only around 10% of that of a glass ionomer, which makes it less useful for deciduous restorations. It has been shown to have no advantage over an amalgam restoration with a fluoride releasing bonding agent, which releases mercury and fluoride. 

Compomers also do not have the ability to 'recharge' their fluoride ion content with topically applied fluoride from toothpaste etc., like glass ionomer cements; this is another limit on their efficacy. Compomers are recommended for patients at medium risk of developing caries.

WHY CHOOSE COMPOMERS INSTEAD OF COMPOSITE?

• In Paediatric patients , we can use compomers for the permanent resorations due to its fluoride release property leaving an anticarious effect.