Pronunciation: [kəmpˈə͡ʊməz] (IPA) 
Compomers are a type of dental material used in restorative dentistry. The word "compomers" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /kɒmˈpɒməz/. The "c" is pronounced as "k" due to the following "o" being short. The "o" is pronounced as "ɒ" in British English. The following "m" represents a syllable break, and the "p" is pronounced similarly to the "k." The final "ers" is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by "z."
Compomers are a type of dental restorative material commonly used in fillings. The term "compomer" is a combination of two words: composite and ionomer. It refers to a class of dental materials that possess the beneficial properties of both composites and glass ionomers.
Compomers are composed of a unique combination of polymerizable resin matrix, glass filler particles, and a carboxylic acid-functional monomer. This combination allows compomers to have improved aesthetics and strength compared to traditional glass ionomers, while also providing some of their desirable properties like fluoride release and chemical bond to tooth structure.
These dental materials are tooth-colored and can be seamlessly blended with the natural tooth color, making them an excellent choice for restorations in visible areas. Compomers provide excellent wear resistance and strength, preventing early wear and fractures in the restored tooth. They also release fluoride ions, which helps to prevent the formation of cavities and promote tooth remineralization.
However, compomers do have some limitations. They are sensitive to moisture during placement and require proper isolation techniques. Additionally, compomers are not as durable as traditional composites and may not be suitable for areas of heavy biting forces. Therefore, their use is typically limited to small to medium-sized restorations, frequently used in children or for anterior teeth restorations in adults.
Overall, compomers are an important category of dental materials that combine the benefits of composites and glass ionomers, providing patients with aesthetically pleasing and functional dental restorations.
The word "compomers" is a portmanteau of two words: "composite" and "ionomer".
The term "composite" in dentistry refers to a dental material that is composed of different components, combining the desirable properties of each component. In the case of dental restorative materials, composites are usually made by mixing a resin matrix (typically a type of plastic) with filler particles (such as glass or ceramics) to create a strong and aesthetic material.
"Ionomer" is another type of dental material that is formed through the reaction of an acid with a glass. The acid reacts with the glass to form a new material that has good adhesive properties and releases fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay.
"Compomers", as a term, was coined to represent a new type of dental restorative material that combines the properties of composites and ionomers.
