Comparative Analysis of the Compressive Strength of Glass Ionomer and Alkasite Restorative Materials over Tricalcium Silicate

This study’s objective was to compare compressive strength of two restorative materials, glass ionomer (EQUIA forte) and alkasite (Cention N), when used over tricalcium silicate (Biodentine) as a pulp capping material. An in vitro study was conducted using 30 extracted premolars without caries, restorations od resorption. Standardized Class I cavities were prepared, lined with 1 mm layer of Biodentine, and restored with the two materials mentioned before. Samples underwent mechanical testing using a universal testing machine. Compressive strength was calculated, and results were analyzed using Student’s t-test. No statistically significant difference was observed between the compressive strength of glass ionomer (mean: 17.56 MPa) and alkasite (mean: 13.88 MPa) restorations(p = 0.3304). Stereomicroscopy revealed adhesive failure in the alkasite group and better dentin adhesion in the glass ionomer group, as well as higher punctual values. Both restorative materials demonstrated comparable compressive strength when used over tri calcium silicate. The findings support their interchangeable use, with selection potentially guided by clinical preference, availability, and cost.