ABSTRACT
An integral component of apicoectomy procedure is the placement of a root end filling material. In this 20 years literature review we identified at least 19 different materials that have been used as root end filling materials. Unfortunately, the ideal material for this purpose is yet to be found. Amalgam is the most frequently used material in apicoectomy procedure and can lead to satisfying results in many cases. IRM, super EBA and MTA are more suitable materials, and give better results in apicoectomy procedures than Amalgam. IRM and super EBA are both ZOE cements. Super EBA is less cytotoxic than IRM, suggesting that the decreased eugenol in Super EBA allows it to be less irritating. MTA gives better results when tested for leakage and biocompatibility than IRM and Super EBA, and has the ability of induction of hard tissue. A possible disadvantage that prevents MTA from being acceptable as "the ideal root-end filling material" is a long setting time that may lead to dislodgment or deformation from root end preparation. Yet, in most cases MTA serves as the best choice for a root end filling material.
