Which restorative material is known for its ability to release fluoride over time?

The choice of glass ionomer as the restorative material known for its ability to release fluoride over time is based on its unique chemical composition and interaction with the oral environment. Glass ionomer is made from a mix of glass particles, organic acids, and water, which allows it to chemically bond to both tooth structure and metal.

One of the key properties of glass ionomer is its release of fluoride ions. This release contributes to the prevention of further dental caries by enhancing the remineralization of the tooth structure. The fluoride ions can integrate into the enamel and dentin structure, providing additional protection against decay. This characteristic makes glass ionomer particularly valuable in high-caries-risk patients and in certain clinical situations, such as for restorations in primary teeth or as liners in deep cavities, where additional fluoride can help protect the tooth over time.

In contrast, materials like amalgam, conventional composites, and micro-filled composites do not have the same capacity for fluoride release. While they serve effective roles in restoring teeth, they do not provide the long-term cariostatic benefits associated with the fluoride release from glass ionomer. This is why glass ionomer is the correct choice when identifying a restorative material with fluoride-releasing properties.