Abstract
Introduction: Minimally invasive dentistry advocates the use of dental materials with adhesive properties; aims to provide means for remineralization of dental tissue damaged by caries and to prevent the progression of initial caries in order to promote maintenance and longevity of dental elements in the mouth. Glass ionomer cement is a prominent material in the current dentistry, because it added favorable physical and biological properties, which were not obtained with other materials. Thus, one of the main objectives of restorative dentistry is the preservation of healthy dental tissues as well as the restoration of lost tissue seeking, through the use of suitable materials and well-conducted techniques, to avoid recurrences or even the appearance of new caries. Objective: It was to provide a literature review on the main findings of the use of glass ionomer cement in dental restorations. Methods: The systematic review rules of the PRISMA Platform were followed. The search was conducted from July to August 2025 in the Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: According to the GRADE instrument, most studies presented homogeneity in their results, with X2=88.5%>50%. A total of 126 articles were found and submitted to eligibility analysis, with 26 final studies selected to compose the results of this systematic review. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 20 studies with a high risk of bias and 29 studies that did not meet GRADE and AMSTAR-2. It was concluded that the objectives of restorative treatment in deciduous teeth with glass ionomer cements are to repair or limit damage caused by caries disease, protect and preserve dental structures, restore proper function, restore aesthetics (when appropriate), and provide a condition that facilitates the maintenance of good oral hygiene. It is imperative that the dental surgeon remembers that pulp vitality should be maintained whenever possible.