Elemental analysis of crystal precipitate from gray and white MTA

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Research
• Crystallography

Background:

• Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is a widely used dental material known for its sealing ability and biocompatibility.
• Understanding the dissolution and crystal formation of MTA is crucial for optimizing its clinical performance.
• Variations in MTA composition, such as gray (GMTA) and white (WMTA) forms, may influence their material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the crystal growth and elemental dissolution characteristics of gray MTA (GMTA), white MTA (WMTA), and an experimental material, Dentalcrete.
• To analyze the composition and structure of surface crystals formed by these materials.
• To quantify calcium (Ca) ion release over time in different solutions.

Main Methods:

• Materials were suspended in Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) without Ca for crystal analysis (SEM, XRD, ICP-AES).
• Materials were also suspended in distilled, deionized water, with Ca content measured by ICP-AES at various time points.
• Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA and Tukey test.

Main Results:

• Both MTA materials exhibited an initial rise in Ca elution, followed by a decline and subsequent increase.
• GMTA generated the highest amount of surface crystal formation compared to WMTA and Dentalcrete.
• Crystals formed on GMTA and WMTA were identified as hydroxyapatite (HA) in terms of chemical and structural properties.

Conclusions:

• GMTA demonstrates superior surface crystal formation, potentially offering enhanced clinical benefits.
• The calcium elution profile of MTA materials is complex, involving initial release, a dip, and a secondary rise.
• The hydroxyapatite-like crystal structure on GMTA and WMTA supports their biocompatibility and potential for hard tissue regeneration.