A comparison of the short-term clinical effect between MTA and Vitapex paste in apexification

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) with Vitapex paste clinically and radiographically as materials used in apexfication. Methods: Forty-five teeth with necrotic pulps and open apices were selected and divided into two groups at random. In group 1, the MTA apexfication (experimental) was done. whereas in group 2, the conventional Vitapex paste apexfication (control) was performed. The children were recalled for clinical and radiographic evaluations after 3 and 6 months. Results: The treatment of MTA cases were accomplished within 3 weeks. After 3 months, one tooth was failed in each group, the effective rates was 95% in both. After 6 months, the efficiency rates were 95.2% and 91.7% respectivety. There was no significant difference between two groups (P0.05). Conclusion: Both MTA and Vitapex paste are good filling materials in apexfication. MTA appeared to be a valid option for apexification with added advantage of speed of completion of therapy and is a suitable replacement for calcium hydroxide for the apexification procedure.