An evaluation of mechanical and adhesive properties of polycarboxylate and glass ionomer cements.

Mechanical and adhesive properties of polycarboxylate and glass ionomer cements were studied. Water had an adverse effect on the compressive and tensile strengths of both materials. Both cements showed good bonding to enamel and dentine. Bonds between polycarboxylate cement and sterling silver were strong enough to cause cohesive failure of the cement rather than adhesive failure, when the specimens were tested. Surface cleaning and conditioning with 5% sodium hypochlorite solution showed an improvement in the bonds of the cements to dentine and they were significantly stronger than the bonds formed after the use of 50% citric acid solution (ASPA conditioner.)