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Mineral Trioxide Aggregate-A Review of Properties and Testing Methodologies
William N Ha1, Timothy Nicholson2, Bill Kahler3
1School of Dentistry, University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane 4004, Australia. w.ha@uq.edu.au.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 4, 2017
Summary
Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) testing requires standardized methods that mimic physiological conditions. Current testing protocols for MTA restoratives and sealers need refinement for accurate biocompatibility and physical property assessment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Testing
Background:
- Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) materials are widely used in endodontic treatments.
- Standard testing protocols (ISO 6876, 9917-1, 10993) are referenced for MTA evaluation.
- Current testing methodologies may not accurately reflect clinical application and MTA hydration dependency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and propose optimized testing methodologies for Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) restoratives and sealers.
- To ensure physical property and biocompatibility tests accurately represent clinical conditions and MTA hydration.
- To highlight the limitations of current standard testing procedures for MTA materials.
Main Methods:
- A PubMed literature search was conducted using keywords related to ISO standards and 'mineral trioxide aggregate'.
- Analysis of common testing procedures for MTA restoratives and sealers, including physical properties and biocompatibility.
- Evaluation of how curing methodology and hydration affect MTA material properties and test outcomes.
Main Results:
- MTA testing often combines procedures from multiple ISO standards.
- The setting and properties of MTA are significantly influenced by hydration and curing methods.
- Existing tests for flow, film thickness, working time, and setting time can be enhanced by rheological analysis.
- Physical property tests should be conducted under physiological conditions (37°C, submerged in solution).
- Biocompatibility tests should utilize MTA samples immediately after mixing, not after curing, to simulate clinical use.
Conclusions:
- Optimized testing protocols for MTA materials should incorporate rheology for a better understanding of hydration.
- Physical property and biocompatibility assessments must replicate physiological conditions and immediate clinical application.
- Refined testing standards are crucial for accurate evaluation of MTA restoratives and sealers in endodontics.
Keywords:
bioceramicbiocompatibilitycalcium silicate cementdental materialsendodonticshygroscopic dental cementphysical propertiesrheologysetting timesolubilityMore Related Videos
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