A comparison of MTA and Ormocer as root-end filling materials: an in-vitro study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the sealing ability of a new organically modified ceramic, Ormocer, in comparison with MTA as a root-end filling material using a dye penetration technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-eight obturated human anterior teeth were divided into 4 groups. Each root was apically resected. Nail polish was applied to the root surfaces of the first 3 groups. Apical cavity preparations were performed on all teeth. The retropreparations were filled either with MTA (group I, n=10 teeth), Ormocer (group II, n=10 teeth), or only covered with nail polish (group III, n=4 teeth). In group IV (positive control, n=4 teeth) no retro-filling and no nail polish was applied. The specimens were suspended in methylene blue dye for 7 days. The teeth were sectioned longitudinally and the depth of linear dye penetration was measured. RESULTS: The results indicated that MTA had significantly (p = 0.022) less microleakage than Ormocer. CONCLUSION: MTA is superior to Ormocer in preventing microleakage when used as a root-end filling material.King Saud Universit