The dentinogenic effect of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in short-term capping experiments

Aim The objective of the present experiment was to study the early pulpal cell response and the onset of reparative dentine formation after capping application of MTA in mechanically exposed pulps. Methodology Thirty-three teeth from three dogs, 12-18 months of age were mechanically exposed via class V cavities. Light pressure was applied to control haemorrhage. ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Simfra, Paris) was placed at the exposure site and light pressure was applied with a wet cotton pellet. The cavities were restored with amalgam and the pulpal tissue reactions were assessed by light and electron microscopy (transmission and scanning) after healing intervals of 1, 2 or 3 weeks. Results A homogenous zone of crystalline structures was initially found along the pulp-MTA interface, whilst pulpal cells showing changes in their cytological and functional state were arranged in close proximity to the crystals. Deposition of hard tissue of osteotypic form was found in all teeth in direct contact with the capping material and the associated crystalline structures. Formation of reparative dentine (tubular matrix formation in a polar predentine-like pattern by elongated polarized cells) was consistently related to a firm osteodentinal zone. Conclusions The present experiments indicate that MTA is an effective pulp-capping material, able to stimulate reparative dentine formation by the stereotypic defensive mechanism of early pulpal wound healing.