Microleakage Evaluation between Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Restorative Materials

Objectives: To determine the microleakage of permanent restorations when placed on partially set MTA .

Methods: Seven groups of MTA/restorative materials were tested: (1) MTA (Tulsa Dental)/Self etch adhesive (All in One-Kerr) and Compoglass (Ivoclar vivadent), (2) MTA/Self etch adhesive and Tetric ceram Composite (Ivoclar vivadent), (3) MTA/Total etch adhesive (OptiBond solo plus-Kerr) and Compoglass, (4) MTA/Total etch adhesive and Tetric ceram, (5) MTA/VitreBond (3M ESPE), (6) MTA/Polycarboxylate cement (3M ESPE), (7) MTA/Amalgam. MTA was packed in a 4mm X 5mm hole in an acrylic base. Within 10-15 minutes of MTA setting time, different restorative materials were applied to MTA using 5 mm diameter straws. Samples were immersed in 2% dimethylene blue dye for 24 hours, rinsed under running water for 5 minutes and dried. (n=12 specimens per group) Each specimen was cut at 2 sites using Isomet saw in longitudinal direction to produce a 2 mm thickness slice. Each slice was evaluated under the stereomicroscope and the average percentage of dye penetration was recorded and compared using two-way ANOVA.

 Results: The mean and standard deviation for the amount of microleakage are shown:

There was a significant difference between all groups (p=0.001). Total etch bonding demonstrated lower microleakage when compared to self etch (p=0.001). Composite expressed lower microleakage than Compomer (p=0.004). Different bonding agents by themselves did not show significant difference with Composite or Compomer (p=0.996).

Conclusions: Applying a total etch bonding agent on partially set MTA followed by Composite showed  least microleakage of all groups. This could eliminate the need for two appointments to treat the same tooth.