Compomer Properties — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateDental MaterialsCompomer PropertiesMFDS Part 1

Which statement best distinguishes a conventional direct restorative compomer from a conventional glass-ionomer cement?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Its primary set occurs by light-activated polymerisation of the resin matrix

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · A = shown as E

A is correct. A compomer is a polyacid-modified resin composite whose primary hardening mechanism is light-activated free-radical polymerisation. Water absorbed after curing may permit limited secondary acid-base activity, but this is not its sole or primary setting reaction, excluding B. Compomers generally release less fluoride than conventional glass-ionomer cements, so C is incorrect. Unlike conventional GIC, a restorative compomer does not rely on intrinsic acid-base chemical adhesion to tooth tissue and is normally used with an adhesive system, excluding D. Its mechanical properties may lie between those of GIC and resin composite, but it is not generally stronger than resin composite, excluding E.

Reference: Nicholson JW. Polyacid-modified composite resins ("compomers") and their use in clinical dentistry. Dental Materials. 2007;23(5):615-622. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16790271/