Porosity analysis of MTA and Biodentine cements for use in endodontics by using micro–computed tomography

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to compare the porosity of two repair cements, White ProRoot® MTA and Biodentine®. These samples were analyzed by using micro-computed microtomography. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixteen samples were used in the study that were divided according to the composition of the materials used. White ProRoot® MTA (n = 8) and Biodentine® (n = 8) were the samples prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They were placed in silicone molds of 5 ± 0.1mm in height and an internal diameter of 5 ± 0.1mm, 24 hours after its preparation, the samples were scanned through a micro-CT, the porosity results were analyzed statistically by independent “t” tests. RESULTS: It is evident that Biodentine® has better porosity properties than ProRoot® MTA. The results of the study quantify a smaller number of pores per surface, a smaller volume in each pore per mm3 and a lower total porosity present in samples of Biodentine® unlike ProRoot® MTA samples which is larger in both. CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained in computerized microtomography endodontic biomaterial samples concluded that Biodentine® has a lower porosity than ProRoot® MTA. Key words:Porosity, microleakage, micro-CT, endodontic cements.