Which material stimulates cementoblasts to produce cementum and is used as a root-end filling material, for perforation repair and pulp capping, and as a root-end barrier in teeth with an open apex?

Which material stimulates cementoblasts to produce cementum and is used as a root-end filling material, for perforation repair and pulp capping, and as a root-end barrier in teeth with an open apex?

• A. Chlorhexidine
• B. MTA
• C. Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2)
• D. Formocresol

Answer: (C)

Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is the material that actively promotes cementogenesis and serves as a versatile endodontic barrier. It is a biocompatible calcium silicate cement that sets in the presence of moisture, forms a strong seal, and releases calcium ions that stimulate cementoblasts to deposit cementum on the root-end. This bioactivity underlies its effectiveness as a root-end filling material, for perforation repair, as a pulp capping agent, and as a root-end barrier in teeth with an open apex. Its moisture-friendly setting, sealing ability, and ability to induce hard tissue formation make it the preferred choice for these indications. By contrast, chlorhexidine is mainly an antiseptic with no structural sealing role; calcium hydroxide is excellent as an intracanal medicament and for some pulp protection and apexification uses but does not provide the same durable root-end seal or cementum-forming stimulus as MTA; and formocresol is toxic and not used for these purposes.

Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is the material that actively promotes cementogenesis and serves as a versatile endodontic barrier. It is a biocompatible calcium silicate cement that sets in the presence of moisture, forms a strong seal, and releases calcium ions that stimulate cementoblasts to deposit cementum on the root-end. This bioactivity underlies its effectiveness as a root-end filling material, for perforation repair, as a pulp capping agent, and as a root-end barrier in teeth with an open apex. Its moisture-friendly setting, sealing ability, and ability to induce hard tissue formation make it the preferred choice for these indications. By contrast, chlorhexidine is mainly an antiseptic with no structural sealing role; calcium hydroxide is excellent as an intracanal medicament and for some pulp protection and apexification uses but does not provide the same durable root-end seal or cementum-forming stimulus as MTA; and formocresol is toxic and not used for these purposes.