Biocompatibility of mineral trioxide aggregate and biodentine as root-end filling materials: an in vivo study

This study evaluated the biocompatibility of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Biodentine (BD) as root-end filling materials. Six mongrel dogs were divided into two equal groups according to the evaluation period; group A: one month and group B: three months. Three premolars of the same quadrant in each arch were used, summing up 36 teeth (6 teeth/dog). These teeth were randomly subdivided into three subgroups according to the root-end filling material used: MTA, BD and no root-end filling material (control). Endodontic access cavities were performed for induction of periapical pathosis. After the infection period, root canal instrumentation and obturation were accomplished. One day after root canal procedures, root-end surgery was performed. Surgical access was achieved and the root-end was resected approximately 3 mm above the apex. Root-end cavity was prepared ultrasonically and filled with the tested materials. All samples were evaluated by radiography and histopathology (Inflammation and new hard tissue formation). Data were collected and subjected to statistical analysis. In group A, MTA subgroup exhibited significant higher mean inflammatory score than BD subgroup (P < 0.05) while no significant difference was recorded between MTA and BD subgroups in group B (P > 0.05). Regarding mean mineralization score, there was no significant difference between all subgroups in both groups A and B (P > 0.05). Biodentine exhibited favorable biocompatibility in the initial stage of healing than MTA and comparable biomineralization. Clinical relevance: Biodentine could be considered as an acceptable alternative to MTA in peri-radicular surgeries.