Comparative evaluation of fluoride release from glass carbomer and bioactive restorative materials used in pediatric dentistry: an in vitro study

Background: This in vitro study aimed to comparatively evaluate the fluoride release profiles of glass carbomer and a bioactive restorative material (ACTIVA™ Kids Bioactive Restorative) in comparison with conventional and resin-modified glass ionomer cements used in pediatric dentistry. Methods: Conventional glass ionomer cement (Fuji IX), resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Fuji II LC), glass carbomer (GCP Glass Fill), and a bioactive restorative material (ACTIVA™ Kids Bioactive Restorative) were evaluated. Disc-shaped specimens (n = 13 per group; 10 mm diameter, 1.0 mm thickness) were prepared and individually immersed in 10 mL of deionized water at 37 ◦C. Fluoride release was measured daily during the first 7 days and subsequently on days 14, 21, and 28 using a fluoride ion-selective electrode. Data were analyzed using non-parametric statistical tests (Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests), with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Glass carbomer exhibited the highest fluoride release among all tested materials throughout the experimental period, followed by conventional glass ionomer cement, resin-modified glass ionomer cement, and ACTIVA™ Kids Bioactive Restorative. The highest fluoride release for all materials was observed on day 1, followed by a gradual decrease over time. While no significant differences were detected among materials on day 1 (p > 0.05), statistically significant differences were observed at subsequent time points (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, glass carbomer cements demonstrated higher fluoride release compared with the other evaluated restorative materials. These findings may be relevant for restorative material selection in pediatric patients with high caries risk; however, clinical extrapolation should be made with caution.

Fluoride ion release; Glass ionomer cements; Glass carbomer; Bioactive restorative material; Pediatric dentistry; Caries prevention

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