A scanning electron microscopic study evaluating the sealing ability of MTA, BiodentineTM, and new light-cure MTA used for furcal perforation repair

BACKGROUND: To evaluate and compare the sealing ability of Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), BiodentineTM and light cure MTA used for the repair of furcal perforations using scanning electron microscope (SEM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study sample comprised 45 extracted mandibular molars. The teeth were embedded in modeling wax. Standard access cavities were prepared in each tooth using a round bur and non-end cutting bur with a high-speed handpiece with water spray. Furcal perforations were made on the centre of the pulpal floor of each tooth using a 0.5mm round bur. The teeth were then randomly divided into 3 experimental groups of 15 specimens each based on the materials used to seal the perforation; Group A: MTA; Group B: BiodentineTM; Group C: Light cure MTA. All the sealed perforations were compacted with a moist cotton pellet, and the samples were stored in a closed container for 24 hours to allow the repair materials to set completely. After 24 hours the samples were sectioned longitudinally and the extent of marginal adaptation was measured using scanning electron microscopy. The sealing ability was evaluated by measuring the gap (in microns) between the pulpal floor and the material used for the furcal repair. RESULTS: The overall results showed that the marginal adaptation of light-cure MTA was better than both MTA as well as Biodentine. The mean space between the pulpal floor and the repair material was least for group C (2.29). Tuckey’s post hoc test showed that a significant difference (p<0.05) existed between group C and group A & B. CONCLUSIONS: Light-cure MTA exbibits good sealing ability to dentin when compared to conventionally used Biodentine and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate. Key words:Calcium silicates, MTA, Biodentinte, New light-cure MTA, Perforation repair.