Chemical differences between white and gray mineral trioxide aggregate.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Science
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is a widely used dental material.
• Understanding the compositional differences between white MTA and gray MTA is crucial for material selection and application.
• Previous analyses have established the primary components, but detailed comparative data on trace elements and oxides is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively compare the elemental composition of white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA) and gray mineral trioxide aggregate (GMTA).
• To identify and quantify significant compositional variations between the two types of MTA.

Main Methods:

• Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) was employed to determine the elemental composition.
• Quantitative analysis of major and minor oxide components in both WMTA and GMTA samples.

Main Results:

• Lime (CaO), silica (SiO2), and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) were identified as dominant compounds in both WMTA and GMTA, present at comparable levels.
• Significant differences in oxide concentrations were observed: Al2O3 (+122%), MgO (+130%), and FeO (+1000%) were notably higher in GMTA compared to WMTA.

Conclusions:

• The primary chemical constituents of WMTA and GMTA are similar.
• The substantial increase in aluminum oxide, magnesium oxide, and particularly iron oxide content in GMTA accounts for the observed color and potential performance differences.
• These compositional variations highlight the need for careful consideration of MTA type based on clinical requirements.