Bacterial leakage with mineral trioxide aggregate or a resin-modified glass ionomer used as a coronal barrier

The purpose of this study was to evaluate gray mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), white MTA, and Fuji II LC cement as coronal barriers to bacterial leakage. Seventy-eight, matched, human teeth were obturated with gutta-percha. In group I, 18 pairs received a 3-mm barrier of gray or white MTA. In group II, 18 pairs received a 3-mm barrier of gray MTA or Fuji cement. Three pairs were used as positive (obturated without barrier) and negative (covered with epoxy resin) controls. A dual-chamber leakage model utilizing salivary microbes was used for the evaluation. Leakage was recorded when turbidity was observed. All controls behaved as expected. In group I, three gray MTA and three white MTA samples leaked. In group II, one gray MTA and three Fuji samples leaked. There was no statistically significant difference in leakage between gray and white MTA or gray MTA and Fuji at 30, 60, or 90 days. Gray and white MTA or Fuji II can be recommended as a coronal barrier for up to 3 months.