Final answer:
Glass Ionomer cements are popular in dentistry for their chemical bond to teeth, fluoride release, biocompatibility, thermal expansion matching tooth structure, and ease of manipulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Glass Ionomer cements are highly popular in dentistry due to several key properties. First and foremost, they have the ability to chemically bond to tooth structure, reducing the need for extensive tooth preparation and mechanical retention. This is beneficial for the conservation of tooth structure. Furthermore, Glass Ionomer cements release fluoride, which can help in preventing recurrent dental caries. Unlike amalgams, which contain mercury, Glass Ionomer cements are biocompatible and less prone to causing allergic reactions or toxicity concerns. Moreover, their coefficient of thermal expansion closely matches that of tooth structure, decreasing the likelihood of fractures or leakage over time. Finally, Glass Ionomer cements are relatively easy to use, with ease of manipulation and can be used in a wet environment, which is advantageous for dental procedures.