MTA Fillapex is a mineral trioxide aggregate-based, salicylate resin root canal sealer that is designed to provide a high fl ow rate and a low-fi lm thickness for easy penetration of lateral and accessory canals. It contains 13% MTA and salicylate resin, which provide excellent antimicrobial and biocompatibility properties, and it features a working time of 23 minutes with a complete set time of approximately 130 minutes. Dr. Elie Wolfson, who was intrigued by the MTA aspects of the product, shares his experience.
DPS What caught your attention and caused you to give MTA Fillapex a try?
I had been using MTA for repairs of perforations and apexifi cation procedures, and relied on the dentinogenic qualities of the MTA, so it was a natural progression for me to consider its use with a sealer.
DPS As an endodontist, how does MTA Fillapex serve as a “problem solver” in some of the more common situations you encounter?
I feel that I can rely more comfortably on positive results because of the MTA content. Problems presented by GPs that transport canals or perforation stand a better chance of proper healing. Because of the MTA content, I have more faith in a successful outcome. I thought it would be helpful for resorption defects, lateral canals, and everyday apical sealing.
DPS What are the top 3 ROI benefi ts for dentists/endodontists who purchase MTA-Fillapex for use in their practices?
1. Ease of use
2. Enhanced healing from the biocompatible components
3. Lack of irritating components like eugenolbased
sealers.
DPS Why is the product easy to use and how does it enhance healing?
The material is mixed by spatulating 2 equal parts of the sealer components in a matter of seconds and does not set for at least 20 minutes.
MTA-Fillapex can also be used with a thick or thin viscosity. The positive induction of dentin or calcifi ed tissue by the MTA content helps speed up the healing process.
DPS In general, what impact has the unit had on your diagnostic ability and treatment planning?
Diagnostics are at a whole different level, both in implantology and endodontics. The graphic representation of bone density around implants is a very helpful feature, as is the virtual endoscope for identifying nerve canals. In fact, that virtual endoscope is particularly unique. With the X-Mind Trium, we see things we never saw before with a small 2D image, making the treatment we provide more accurate and predictable.
DPS What makes MTA-Fillapex stand out from other similar products in the market?
MTA-Fillapex was the fi rst sealer developed for use in conventional endodontic treatment aside from other patented systems. It is unique because it adapted the miracle medicament MTA into a useful sealer for general use.
