ABSTRACT
Objective:To examine the surface of mineral trioxide aggr eg ate (MTA) when treated in different conditions in vitro. Method: Root blocks were prepared. MTA and other three dental materials (Dycal, Dyr act and amalgam) were respectively filled into the root canals of prepared root blocks. The roots with the materials were maintained in distilled water or simul ated body fluid (SBF) at 37 ℃ for 5 days. Scanning electron microscopy(SEM) and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy(EDS) were employed to investigate the mor phological changes and chemical components. Results:There was pr ecipitate of simple crystal units or crystalline structure in the MTA specimens. EDS showed one or two peaks corresponding to calcium or calcium and phosphorus. Conclusions:Apatite may produce and grew by MTA on its surface.