Understanding mineral trioxide aggregate/Portland-cement: A review of literature and background factors
R. Steffen, H. van Waes
ABSTRACT
AIM: This was to carry out a review of the literature concerning
mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Portland cement
with regards to clinical, biological and mechanical findings
and a possible substitution of MTA through Portland cement
for endodontic use. STUDY DESIGN: Electronic literature
search of scientific papers from January 1993 to January
2009 was carried out on the MEDLINE and Scopus databases
using specific key words. In total, 57 papers were
identified that dealt with MTA and Portland cement in a relevant
way. RESULTS: The review of 50 papers conforming to
the applied criteria showed that MTA and Portland cements
have the same clinical, biological and mechanical properties.
In animal experiments and technical characterisations
both materials seemed to have very similar properties. The
only difference is bismuth oxide in MTA added for better radio
opacity. It seems likely that MTA materials are based on
industrial Portland cements mixed with bismuth oxide. More
studies, especially some long-term studies comparing MTA
and Portland cement, are necessary. CONCLUSION: The
existing literature gives a solid base for clinical studies with
Portland cement in order to replace MTA as an endodontic
material. Portland cement could be a substitute for most
endodontic materials used in primary teeth.
Key words: MTA, Portland cement, mineral trioxide aggregate, discoloration, biocompatible
Eur Archs Paediatr Dent 2009;10(2):93-97.
Clinic for Orthodontics and Paediatric Dentistry, Dept.Paediatric Dentistry, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
Postal address: Dr. R. Steffen., Clinic for Orthodontics and Paediatric Dentistry,
Plattenstrasse 11, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
Email: richard.steffen@zzmk.uzh.ch
