Use of a hydroxylapatite-based material and calcium sulfate as artificial floors to repair furcal perforations

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate a hydroxylapatite-based material and calcium sulfate when each was used under a resin-modified glass ionomer cement to repair furcation perforations.

Study design: Perforations of pulp chamber floors were made in 72 teeth of 9 dogs. Perforations were divided into 3 equal-sized groups and repaired with resin-modified glass ionomer either alone or over an artificial floor. The artificial floor was either a hydroxylapatite-based material or calcium sulfate. Three dogs were killed at each of 3 intervals (1, 3, and 6 months). The tissue response to the tested materials was evaluated clinically, radiographically, and histologically.

Results: The hydroxylapatite-based material showed the highest radiographic success; this was followed by calcium sulfate and glass ionomer. From histologic evaluation, the average success rate was found to be 67% for calcium sulfate, 62% for the hydroxylapatite-based material, and 59% for glass ionomer. However, there was no statistical significant difference with the resin-modified glass ionomer when it was used alone and when it was used over a barrier. There was also no significant difference between the hydroxylapatite-based material and the calcium sulfate when they were used as artificial floors.

Conclusion: The use of an artificial floor may not be necessary when flowable resin-modified glass ionomer cements are used.