Ho, ho, ho! Gather around, my little dental elves, for a tale of scientific wonder, a story that twinkles like the lights on our beloved Christmas tree. This yuletide narrative isn’t about toys or reindeer, but about something just as magical in the world of dentistry: the bond between resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), a duo as inseparable as Santa and Mrs. Claus, but only under the right conditions.

In our frosty workshop, not made of gingerbread but of the finest self-cure acrylic resin, 80 cylindrical blocks were crafted with care. Each block, like a tiny chimney, had a central cavity waiting for a special gift. These gifts weren’t toys, but two types of MTA cements: ProRoot MTA and MTA Angelus, each as unique as a snowflake.

Our diligent elves, with their meticulous hands, divided these blocks into two groups, each group destined to receive one of the two magical cements. But the magic doesn’t end there! Like the 12 days of Christmas, these groups were further divided, though into four sub-groups, based on different time intervals, not partridges in pear trees or golden rings.

With a sprinkle of holiday cheer, the MTA was placed into the cavities, covered with a wet cotton pellet as snug as a stocking hung by the fire. A hollow plastic tube, not unlike a miniature sleigh, was placed over the MTA, and then, with a flick of a wand (or rather, a light-curing device), the RMGIC was added, setting the stage for a bond as strong as the Christmas spirit.

But, as with all good tales, there was a test! Mounted on a universal testing machine, which might as well have been Santa’s sleigh for its ability to deliver results, a crosshead speed was applied until the bond between the MTA and RMGIC failed, revealing the strength of their connection.

And what did we find on this festive journey? That timing is as crucial as remembering to leave out cookies for Santa. For MTA Angelus, a mere 10 minutes of setting time was like waiting until Christmas Eve to hang your stockings – just enough to ensure a strong bond. But for ProRoot MTA, patience is a virtue, and waiting 45 minutes was like waiting until Christmas morning to open presents – absolutely worth it for the best results.

So, my dear elves, as we wrap up this tale, remember: in the world of dentistry, as in the North Pole, timing and the right combination of materials can make all the difference. May your bonds be strong and your holidays merry!

How to cite this festive tale: Tyagi N, Chaman C, Anand S, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength of Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Cement with ProRoot MTA and MTA Angelus. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(1):35-40.