Use of MTA as Endodontic Apical Plug: Clinical Study

Methods: 30 teeth with large periapical lesions were selected from the patients referred to Endodontic Department. The root canals of teeth were cleaned, shaped and calcium hydroxide paste was placed in the canals for 1 week. After 1 week, the apical portion of the canal (3 mm) was filled with MTA. The remaining portion of the root canals was filled with lateral condensation technique using gutta-percha and sealer. The teeth were controlled clinically and radiographically at 6 months, 1 and 2 years.

Results: The whole of the 30 teeth were clinically asymptomatic and also periapical lesions of all the teeth were decreased radiographically at 6, 12 and 24 months observation periods. In addition to this, 14 teeth (%46,7) at 6 months, 23 teeth (%76,7) at 12 months and 27 teeth (%90) at 24 months showed completely heal with no periapical lesion.

Conclusions: This study showed that the usage of MTA as an endodontic apical plug appears to be an appropriate application for the tooth with large periapical lesion.