National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Glass ionomer capsules are mixed by what method?

1. Hand mixing

2. Mechanical trituration

3. Stirring with a spatula

4. Heating

The correct answer is: Mechanical trituration

The correct method for mixing glass ionomer capsules is mechanical trituration. This technique involves using a dental amalgamator, a machine specifically designed to efficiently mix materials while providing consistent results. Mechanical trituration ensures that the glass ionomer material is properly blended, activating the required chemical reactions that facilitate the formation of a strong, workable paste. In the context of dental materials, glass ionomers have specific mixing requirements that are best met through mechanical methods. This is because the mixing process can influence the final setting characteristics, strength, and overall performance of the material. By using an amalgamator, practitioners can achieve a homogeneous mixture that is crucial for effective application in dental procedures, such as restorations or cementation. Other methods, like hand mixing or stirring with a spatula, may not provide the same level of consistency and thoroughness needed for glass ionomer materials. These techniques rely on manual effort, which can lead to variations in the mixture and, therefore, affect the properties of the final product. Heating is not a standard practice for mixing glass ionomer, as it can alter the chemical composition and performance characteristics of the material.