Rheological and Mechanical Evaluation of Metformin-Modified Restorative Glass Ionomer Cements: A Preliminary In-Vitro Analysis

Abstract

Background: Glass ionomer cements are being widely used in dentistry, with the incorporation of pharmaceutical agents enhancing their physical properties.

Objective: The objective of this work was to assess the mechanical and setting characteristics of metformin-modified glass ionomer cement (GIC) restorative materials.

Materials and Methods: The research design adopted for this study was an in-vitro experimental study involving the testing of two types of restorative glass ionomer cements (GICs), FUJI and 3M Ketac Molar, with concentrations of 0%, 1.5%, 3.0%, and 4.5% metformin hydrochloride (MF). The control group (CG) consisted of a conventional GIC without MF. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to characterize the sample. Flexural strength (FS), tensile strength (TS), and Vickers microhardness testing were used to analyze mechanical properties, and the Vicat test was used to examine setting behavior.  Statistical analysis was conducted using two-way ANOVA.

Results: It was observed that 3M Ketac Molar groups showed higher FS and Vickers microhardness values than FUJI IX groups. 3M-CG had maximum microhardness (69.0 ± 0) and FS (48.0 ± 1), while FUJI + MF 4.5 wt% had lowest values (61.0 ± 1.4 and 33.6 ± 1.3). Mean TS values of 3M groups exceeded those of FUJI groups, except for FUJI with 3% and 4.5% MF. 3M-CG had highest TS (23.0 ± 0), and 3M + MF 4.5 wt% the lowest (11.2 ± 1.5).

Conclusion: The inclusion of metformin in GIC caused a reduction in the mechanical and setting properties of the GIC in relation to the concentration level, with comparatively less change at 1.5 wt.%. Further biological and clinical studies are required.