Histological studies show that inflammatory infiltrate from glass ionomer is minimal or absent after 1 month

• A. moderate
• B. minimal or absent
• C. severe
• D. marked

Answer: (B)

Biocompatibility of dental materials is judged by how the pulp tissue responds over time. Glass ionomer cement tends to be well tolerated, and the inflammatory reaction settles as healing occurs. If histology shows little to no inflammatory infiltrate after a month, that indicates the pulp has recovered well and the material is not continuing to irritate the tissue. A moderate, severe, or marked infiltrate would mean ongoing irritation or damage, which is not expected after a month with a biocompatible material. So describing the finding as minimal or absent inflammatory infiltrate best reflects the favorable pulpal response and healing.