Clinical efficacy of mineral trioxide aggregate for repair of furcal perforation in molars

Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) for repair of furcal perforation in molars. Methods Twenty- one molars with furcal perforation diagnosed between January 2005 and January 2008 were selected. In all molars mentioned above, there were 15 with iatrogenic perforation and 6 with carious perforation of pulp floor. The pulp chamber and root canals were cleaned, followed by obturation of the root canals and MTA filling of perforation which completed the coronal repair. The treatment outcomes were evaluated within 2 weeks and 2 years after the procedure. Results Within 2 weeks after operation, X-ray follow-up showed successfully repaired perforations in 17 teeth with dense-packing MTA in place. Failed repair was note in 3 teeth with carious perforation and 1 with iatrogenic perforation. Fifteen teeth were found with over-filling but without any clinical symptoms. Two years after operation, 11 out of 12 teeth were found well-obturated. Conclusions MTA can be an effective treatment of teeth with furcal perforation. Mild over-filling of the perforation does not affect the outcomes. Key words: Dental materials;  Mineral trioxide aggregate;  Treatment outcome;  Perforation; Repair