Developments in glass-ionomer cements.

The performance of glass-ionomer cements has been improved since their introduction, and many of the initial disadvantages have been overcome. This article reviews the development of glass-ionomer cements, the problems involved, their solution, and their relation to underlying scientific principles. It describes improvements in mixing and setting characteristics, aesthetics, strength, and adhesion to tooth material. New bonding agents and resin-modified glass-ionomer cements are described.