Dental Materials Selection — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateDental MaterialsDental Materials SelectionORE Part 1

Which type of glass ionomer cement (GIC) has the most appropriate properties for a core build-up under a crown?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Resin-modified GIC (RMGIC)

Explanation lettering: B = shown as A · D = shown as B · A = shown as D

RMGIC (A) is the correct answer because it combines the clinically valuable properties of conventional GIC—biocompatibility, fluoride release, and direct tooth adhesion—with superior mechanical strength achieved through resin modification. This dual benefit makes RMGIC ideal for core build-up, where both durability under masticatory load and long-term protection of remaining tooth structure are essential. Conventional GIC (B) has been documented as unsuitable for core build-up due to insufficient tensile strength. High-viscosity GIC (C), though stronger than conventional GIC, lacks the additional reinforcement of RMGIC. Compomer (D) and flowable composite (E) have inadequate compressive strength or lack the necessary rigidity for load-bearing core applications.

Reference: 1. Burrow MF, et al. Laboratory strength of glass ionomer cement, compomers, and resin composites. Journal of Dentistry. 2002. PubMed PMID: 12087545. 2. Glass Ionomer Cement. StatPearls Publishing, 2024. PMID: 35881750. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12087545/