Physicochemical properties of three bioceramic cements

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Calcium Silicate Cements

Background:

• Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and its analogs are widely used in endodontics and restorative dentistry.
• Understanding the comparative physicochemical properties of different MTA-based materials is crucial for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the setting times, solubility, pH, calcium ion release, and radiopacity of MTA Angelus (MTA-A), MTA Repair HP (MTA-HP), and Biodentine (BD).

Main Methods:

• Setting times were assessed using ASTM C266-15.
• Solubility, pH, and calcium ion release were evaluated up to 28 days per ANSI/ADA specification no. 57.
• Radiopacity was determined using both ANSI/ADA standards and a tissue simulator method with digital radiography analysis.

Main Results:

• MTA Angelus exhibited a longer final setting time compared to MTA Repair HP and Biodentine.
• No significant differences in material mass were observed.
• All materials maintained an alkaline pH, with Biodentine showing greater calcium ion release.
• All materials demonstrated appropriate radiopacity, though Biodentine was less radiopaque than MTA Angelus in the tissue simulator method.

Conclusions:

• MTA Angelus, MTA Repair HP, and Biodentine possess suitable physicochemical properties and radiopacity for clinical application.
• The choice between these materials may depend on specific clinical requirements, such as desired setting time and calcium release profile.