Comparison of Diaket and MTA when used as root-end filling materials to support regeneration of the periradicular tissues

Aim The objective of this study was to evaluate on a comparative basis the potential for mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Diaket to promote periradicular tissue regeneration when used as surgical root-end filling materials. Methodology Seven dogs weighing between 15 and 25 kg were anesthetized prior to having the root canals of their mandibular premolars accessed, cleaned, shaped and obturated. Coronal access cavities were restored with IRM. Surgical access to the root ends was established and the root ends were resected and prepared with ultrasonic tips. Root-end fillings of either MTA or thickly mixed Diaket were randomly assigned to the preparations. Reflected tissues were repositioned and sutured with 4-0 vicryl sutures. Sixty days postsurgery, the animals were killed, perfused with 10% neutral buffered formalin and the third and fourth premolars removed in block sections. The specimens were demineralized and sectioned at 6-mum intervals for histological assessment. Sections were stained with either haematoxylin and eosin or Gomori's one step trichrome stain and examined under the light microscope. All evaluations were made by two calibrated examiners and gradings were scored based on established criteria. The raw data was evaluated statistically using anova after adjusting for the animal block effect. Results Statistical evaluation indicated that there were no statistical differences between the observed regenerative responses of the tissues to the two root-end filling materials. Conclusions Both Diaket and MTA can support almost complete regeneration of the periradicular periodontium when used as root-end filling materials in periradicular surgery on noninfected teeth.