The comparative evaluation of various additives on setting time and compressive strength of MTA Plus: An in vitro study

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Dr. Hema B.S., Dr. Nishita Grandhi, Dr. Saloni Goenka, Dr. Purva Verma, Dr. Vikalp Bansal, Dr. Dhiraj Agrawal

Abstract

Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is widely used in endodontic treatments due to its excellent sealing ability, biocompatibility, and regenerative properties. However, its prolonged setting time and lower initial compressive strength limit its clinical use. Various additives have been proposed to improve these characteristics. This study aims to evaluate the effects of different additives on the setting time and compressive strength of MTA Plus.


Materials and Methods

An in vitro experimental study was conducted using MTA Plus as the control material, with various additives incorporated in the test groups, including calcium chloride (CaCl₂), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), and citric acid. Specimens were prepared by mixing MTA Plus with each additive in predefined concentrations. The setting time was measured using a Vicat needle apparatus, while compressive strength was evaluated using a universal testing machine after 24 hours and 7 days of setting. Arbitrary setting times and compressive strength values were recorded for comparative analysis.


Results

The addition of calcium chloride significantly reduced the setting time of MTA Plus from 165 minutes to 90 minutes. Sodium bicarbonate also reduced the setting time to 110 minutes, while citric acid showed a minimal reduction to 155 minutes. In terms of compressive strength, calcium chloride enhanced the compressive strength by 15% after 24 hours and 20% after 7 days compared to the control group. Sodium bicarbonate increased compressive strength by 10%, while citric acid demonstrated no significant improvement.


Conclusion

The incorporation of calcium chloride into MTA Plus effectively improves both setting time and compressive strength, making it a suitable additive for clinical situations requiring faster setting and enhanced material properties. Sodium bicarbonate showed moderate improvements, while citric acid had minimal impact. Further research is needed to explore other potential additives for optimizing MTA Plus performance.


 


 

 

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