Comparative Assessment of MTA, Biodentine, and New-Generation Bioceramics in Vital Pulp Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Keywords:
Vital pulp therapy, MTA, Biodentine, bioceramic materials, randomized controlled study, dentin bridge formation, pulp vitality, endodontic biomaterials.Abstract
Background:
Vital pulp therapy (VPT) remains an essential procedure in conservative endodontics, aiming to maintain pulp vitality and function after exposure due to caries or trauma. The development of bioceramic materials such as Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), Biodentine, and newer-generation formulations has significantly improved treatment outcomes by enhancing biocompatibility, sealing ability, and dentin bridge formation. However, clinical comparisons under standardized conditions remain limited.
Aim:
This randomized controlled study aimed to comparatively assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes of MTA, Biodentine, and new-generation bioceramics used in vital pulp therapy of cariously exposed permanent teeth.
Materials and Methods:
A total of ninety patients aged 18–40 years presenting with carious pulp exposure in permanent teeth with positive vitality tests were randomly assigned into three groups: MTA, Biodentine, and new-generation bioceramics. Standardized partial pulpotomy procedures were performed, and the treated teeth were evaluated clinically and radiographically at 1 week, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Parameters assessed included postoperative pain, continued pulp vitality, dentin bridge formation, and periapical healing. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA and chi-square tests with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results:
All three materials demonstrated favorable clinical and radiographic success rates at the 12-month follow-up. Biodentine and the new-generation bioceramics showed superior handling characteristics and faster setting times compared to MTA. The new-generation bioceramics exhibited slightly enhanced radiographic evidence of dentin bridge formation and fewer postoperative symptoms, although differences among the groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).
MTA, Biodentine, and new-generation bioceramics are all effective materials for vital pulp therapy, showing high clinical success and biocompatibility. While MTA remains the benchmark for biological performance, Biodentine and newer bioceramics offer improved handling, reduced setting time, and comparable healing outcomes, supporting their use as reliable alternatives in vital pulp preservation (Singh, 2019; Ward, 2002).
