The Microcrystalline Structure and Elemental Analysis of Expired and Non-Expired Shelf-Life White MTA: A SEM and E-DAX analysis Study.

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the microcrystalline structure and elemental analysis of expired and non-expired shelf-life white Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) through Energy Dispersive Analysis by X-ray (EDAX) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).

Methods: Six different expired (after 6 months) and non-expired (Pro-Root) white MTA is used. A powder in a thin layer was dispersed over a slab made up of polymethyl- methacrylate mounted on an aluminium stub. Carbon coating of the specimen is done to get electrical conductivity. The prepared specimen was then viewed under the SEM, and EDAX.

Results: The microcrystalline structure of Expired white MTA showed that material is very similar to Non-Expired MTA, except for the absence of smooth elongated particles and the presence of angular rounded particles by using SEM. The elemental analysis of Expired and Non-expired white MTA also showed quite similar constituent except for slight decrease in calcium and aluminium and increase in oxygen and carbon in expired MTA through EDAX analysis.

Conclusion:Expiration date does not affect the structure but constituent of expired and non-expired shelf life of MTA differs. More studies are required to know the effect of expired MTA on vital permanent and primary teeth.