The Effect of Acidic Beverages on Resin-Modified Glass Ionomers

Abstract

Background: Resin-modified glass ionomer cements are widely used in restorative dentistry because they chemically bond to tooth structure, release fluoride, and offer improved handling and mechanical properties compared with conventional glass ionomer cements. However, frequent exposure to acidic beverages may compromise their surface integrity and adhesive performance. Objective: This narrative review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the effects of acidic beverages on the physicochemical, adhesive, and micromorphological properties of resin-modified glass ionomer cements. Methods: Relevant literature was reviewed from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Scopus using terms related to resin-modified glass ionomer cement, acidic beverages, dental erosion, microhardness, surface roughness, bond strength, wear resistance, fluoride release, and restorative dental materials. Evidence was synthesized qualitatively by outcome domain. Results: Acidic beverages, particularly cola drinks and fruit juices, were associated with reduced surface hardness, increased surface roughness, weakened dentin bond strength, and micromorphological deterioration at the RMGIC–dentin interface. RMGICs showed greater resistance than conventional glass ionomer cements but remained vulnerable to repeated or prolonged acidic exposure. Conclusion: Frequent acidic beverage exposure may reduce the long-term clinical durability of RMGIC restorations. Dietary counselling, careful material selection, and standardized future in vitro and in vivo studies are required.