ENTERING THE "M.T.A."
(MINERAL TRIOXIDE AGGREGATE)
INTRODUCTION:
Developed under the vision of the Department of Endodontics in Loma Linda, California and under the tenacity of Dr. Torabinejad and Dr. Pitt-Ford, the new dental material, M.T.A. has undergone vigorous tests with excellent results. It has proven to be adequate for use as a retrograde root-end material and also for sealing perforations (extra radicular communication).
DESCRIPTION:
M.T.A. (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate) is mainly composed of 87% calcium/phosphorous (similar to dentin), tricalcium aluminate, tricalcium oxide, tricalcium silicate, and a small amount of a few other mineral oxides plus bismuth oxide added for radiopacity.
ADVANTAGES:
M.T.A. is similar to ideal retrograde material:
- Biocompatible in contact with cell and tissue.
- Non-toxic - It minimizes the interaction between material and host tissue.
- Promotes healing - It induces formation of hard tissue barrier similar to apexification procedure. The pH is similar to that of calcium hydroxide (between 10.2 and 12.5).
- Stainless to soft tissue (unlike amalgam).
- Non-resorbable.
- Electrochemically active.
- Adheres to cavity wall - good sealing ability (hydrophyllic).
- Dimensionally stable.
- Not affected by presence of moisture.
- Have bacteriostatic properties.
DISADVANTAGES:
Unlike most retrograde materials, M.T.A. needs moisture to set (approximately 8 hours), therefore a moist environment is added when feasible. It is mixed with saline, anesthetic solution, or sterile water; however, it is difficult to manipulate. M.T.A. is not yet available commercially but will be very soon.
OUR EXPERIENCES:
We have been using M.T.A. for just about three years. Most importantly it has been used for existing perforations with active drainage (either through a fistula or the gingival sulcus). There have been approximately a dozen cases that originally has a poor prognosis, which have reversed to success due to the use of M.T.A. We are experiencing great satisfaction and confidence in treating our patients with the most current knowledge and technology available. This is a remarkable time that we live in today and we are ready for the new century!
ENDO FACTS is intended to aid the practitioner in the management of endodontic conditions. Practitioners must always use their own best professional judgement. We neither expressly nor implicitly warrant any positive results associated with this material.
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