FX-LC Capsule light-cured glass ionomer restorative from Shofu Dental Corp.

Glass ionomers seem to be making a resurgence as a dental restorative material. Many major dental restorative companies that have excellent composite materials also have excellent glass ionomer restoratives, such as Shofu’s FX-LC Capsule. Yes, this capsule of light-cure, resin-reinforced glass ionomer needs to be triturated, and yes, it requires a dispensing “gun,” but it is well worth the effort.

FX-LC contains New Generation Acrylamide (NGA), which optimizes polymerization with properties that, according to the manufacturer’s internal data/testing, exceed those of leading competitors, specifically in compressive strength, allowing for a longer-lasting restoration that resists marginal breakdown.

As with many of Shofu’s products, this is a very cost-effective material that does not sacrifice quality or clinical performance. It is available in both low and high viscosity (LV has a smoother feel when applying and HV is firmer), and it comes in a box of 50 capsules per shade. FX-LC Capsule HV is available in shades A1, A2, and A3, while FX--LC LV is available in these shades: A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, BW, and Pedo), which should address all esthetic concerns.

As with most glass ionomer restoratives, there is no need for a conditioner or primer, and specifically the use of phosphoric acid, a desensitizer, and/or silver diamine fluoride (SDF) will diminish the bond strength to the tooth structure. You can place the material directly into the cavity preparation up to 4 mm, which is more than twice the depth of a leading competitor! Photo-curing time is less as well at only 10 seconds with either a halogen or LED curing light. This is due to Shofu’s proprietary Tri Cure chemistry that has a polymerization catalyst causing the deepest layer of the resin to cure without intense light.

GIs are well known for their moisture tolerance and the ability to release and recharge fluoride. Indications are for restoring deciduous teeth, as well as class V lesions and core buildups, and they’re ideal with geriatric patients. It is not indicated in load-bearing class I and class II restorations in adult dentition.

Cost-effective, long-lasting, and esthetic are three good reasons for considering FX-LC Capsules.

Prodia Select Diamonds from Prodia Dental

I recently have become enamored by the diamond burs from Prodia Dental. These diamonds are manufactured in the US and are sold directly from factory to dentists. Previously, I wrote about the Prodia Sport series, which I found to be faster, easier, and better for crown and bridge preparation. The Prodia Select line is a “supercharged” lineup of diamonds from cutting and tooth preparation to refining and finishing procedures.

Although I am a big advocate of single-use diamonds, their proprietary precision plating process bonds the diamonds to the shaft, promoting a longer/extended lifespan to the diamond and allowing more control as well as a faster and more rotational accuracy for a smoother cut. As with the Sport line, vibration and noise are greatly reduced with air-driven handpieces but even more so with electric motor handpieces.

Regardless of the tooth preparation you prefer, be it chamfer or shoulder, or your preference for cavity preparation or finishing, Prodia Select has the selection to suit your needs. These burs are well worth the small differential in price from lower cost burs that do not provide the speed, accuracy, and comfort that you and your patients will realize.

Next time you order burs, don’t simply add to your supply order, benefit by ordering direct from Prodia; you’ll also benefit from less fatigue and less friction, skip, and chatter that can affect health of the tooth—all good reasons to “take these burs for a spin!” 

Editor's note: This article appeared in the July/August 2026 print edition of Dental Economics magazine. Dentists in North America are eligible for a complimentary print subscription. Sign up here.