Note: the liquid component of GIC can
only be used for conditioning if it contains
the acid component of the GIC. There are
some brands of GIC where the liquid component
consists of demineralised water only,
the acid being in the powder in a freezedried
form. Under such circumstances a separate dentine conditioner must be used.
The conditioner is applied to the cavity
and pits and fissures using a cotton wool
pellet for 15-20 seconds or for the period
of time specified by the manufacturer.
Bond strength is affected if insufficient or
too long a time is allowed for conditioning.
Wash the cavity and pits and fissures with
pellets dipped in clean, luke-warm water
and then dry carefully. If a triple-syringe is
used, take care not to over-dry the cavity
since this will tend to reduce the chemical
bonding of the GIC to the dentine.