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Open Access Comparison of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Calcium Hydroxide as Pulpotomy Agents in Young Permanent Teeth (Apexogenesis)

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) clinically and radiographically as a pulpotomy agent in immature permanent teeth (apexogenesis).

Methods: Fifteen children, each with at least 2 immature permanent teeth requiring pulpotomy (apexogenesis), were selected for this study. All selected teeth were evenly divided into 2 test groups. In group 1, the conventional Ca(OH)2 pulpotomy (control) was performed, whereas in group 2, the MTA pulpotomy (experimental) was done. The children were recalled for clinical and radiographic evaluations after 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results: The follow-up evaluations revealed failure due to pain and swelling detected at 6 and 12 months postoperative evaluations in only 2 teeth treated with Ca(OH)2. The remaining 28 teeth appeared to be clinically and radiographically successful 12 months postoperatively. Calcific metamorphosis was a radiographic finding in 2 teeth treated with Ca(OH)2 and 4 teeth treated with MTA.

Conclusions: Mineral trioxide aggregate showed clinical and radiographic success as a pulpotomy agent in immature permanent teeth (apexogenesis) and seems to be a suitable alternative to calcium hydroxide.

Keywords: APEXOGENESIS; MINERAL TRIOXIDE AGGREGATE; MTA

Document Type: Research Article

Publication date: 01 September 2006

More about this publication?
  • Pediatric Dentistry is the official publication of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. It is published bi-monthly and is internationally recognized as the leading journal in the area of pediatric dentistry. The journal promotes the practice, education and research specifically related to the specialty of pediatric dentistry. This peer-reviewed journal features scientific articles, case reports and abstracts of current pediatric dental research.
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