MTA Outperformed Bioactive Glass in Tooth Pulp Study
Patients saw better clinical survival rates with MTA for pulp capping compared to 45S5 bioactive glass.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Stroke
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A clinical trial comparing two pulp-capping materials in 44 mature permanent teeth found that MTA achieved significantly higher survival rates than 45S5 bioactive glass. The study followed participants aged 15 to 40 years over an 18-month period to monitor long-term outcomes.
Why it matters
Choosing the right material for dental procedures like direct pulp capping is critical for preventing treatment failure and maintaining tooth vitality. This finding identifies material choice as a primary factor in the longevity of these dental interventions.
In a randomized clinical trial of 44 mature permanent teeth, MTA demonstrated superior clinical survival probability compared to 45S5 bioactive glass (P=0.002). The pulp-capping material was identified as the only statistically significant variable associated with treatment failure.
The details
The trial utilized a 1:1 randomization process to assign teeth to either an MTA or 45S5 bioactive glass treatment group. Researchers used Kaplan-Meier analysis to track clinical survival, while pulp oxygen saturation was monitored as a measure of tooth vitality. Statistical analysis confirmed that while the materials had different survival outcomes, neither showed significant changes in pulp oxygen saturation over the course of the study.
Timeline
Baseline assessments were conducted for pulp oxygen saturation.
Follow-up evaluations occurred at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months.
Health Landscape
This study contributes to the ongoing clinical evaluation of dental pulp-capping materials used to preserve tooth structure. It clarifies the performance of existing options within the evolving standard of restorative care.
If you are undergoing procedures involving pulp capping, ask your dentist which materials they prefer and why they are appropriate for your specific case. Discussing the potential for treatment failure or long-term durability is a standard part of preparing for restorative dental work.
The takeaway
The choice of material significantly impacts the clinical survival of teeth treated with direct pulp capping. When discussing restorative options, consult your dentist about the evidence supporting their preferred materials to ensure the best long-term outcome.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in oral health research by visiting Stroke.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nature.
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