Why is glass ionomer cement commonly used for banding orthodontic bands?

Glass ionomer cement is favored for bonding orthodontic bands primarily due to its fluoride-releasing properties, which provide an added layer of protection against dental caries. This fluoride release helps remineralize nearby tooth structure and reduces the risk of decay during orthodontic treatment, which is particularly important as patients may have difficulty maintaining optimal oral hygiene with braces.

While factors such as cost, ease of application, and strength of bond are also important in the selection of dental cements, the unique benefit of fluoride release is a significant reason for the use of glass ionomer cement in orthodontics. It not only provides adequate bonding strength for the purpose of securely placing bands but also contributes to the overall health of the tooth structure during treatment.

The considerations around other types of cements can include their ease of application and bond strength, but they may not offer the same preventive benefits against decay as glass ionomer cement does.