Sealing ability of white mineral trioxide aggregate mixed with 2.25% sodium hypochlorite gel used for repairing furcal perforations in primary molars: an in vitro study

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the sealing ability of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and 2.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) gel mixture in repairing furcal perforation in primary molars using methylene blue dye penetration.

Materials and methods

It was an in vitro experimental study. Sixty human primary molars were randomly divided into four groups (n = 15). Group 1 (MTA + distilled water (DW)): Furcal perforations were repaired with MTA and DW mixture. Group 2 (MTA + NaOCl gel): Furcal perforations were repaired with MTA and 2.25% NaOCl gel mixture. Group 3 (Positive control): Furcal perforations left untreated. Group 4 (Negative control): Primary molars with no furcal perforations. The primary molars underwent amputation 3 mm apical to the furcation area, then received a standard access cavity preparation. The flowable composite was used to seal the canal orifices and the apical end of each root. Clear nail varnish was applied to cover the cavity walls and pulpal floor. The molars' pulp chambers were placed in a 2% methylene blue solution for 24 hours. The samples were then cut into mesiodistal sections, and the extent of dye penetration was measured on each wall from the bottom of the perforation to the floor of the pulp chamber.

Results

The dye penetration score for the MTA + DW group was 0.05 ± 0.05, followed by the MTA + NaOCl gel group (0.07 ± 0.07). The MTA + DW mixture did not outperform the MTA + NaOCl gel's sealing ability (p = 1.000). Both materials have good sealing ability since no statistically significant difference was noted with the negative control group (p > 0.05).

Conclusions
The MTA + NaOCl gel mixture may serve as a viable alternative for repairing furcal perforations in primary molars.