In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation of different pulp capping materials: a comparative study.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Regenerative Dentistry

Background:

• Direct pulp capping aims to preserve pulp vitality and function after exposure.
• Evaluating the biocompatibility of various pulp-capping agents is crucial for clinical success.
• Calcium hydroxide-based materials have been traditionally used but can exhibit cytotoxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the in vitro biocompatibility of seven different direct pulp-capping materials.
• To assess the cytocompatibility of Dycal®, Calcicur®, Calcimol LC®, TheraCal LC®, ProRoot MTA®, MTA-Angelus®, and Biodentine®.
• To evaluate the potential of newer materials like Biodentine® as alternatives to traditional agents.

Main Methods:

• In vitro study using murine odontoblast cells (MDPC-23).
• Transwell insert methodology with Alamar blue assay to assess cytocompatibility at 24, 48, and 72 hours.
• MTT assay and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy for cell viability and morphological analysis.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in biocompatibility were observed among the tested materials.
• Biodentine® and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)-based materials demonstrated lower cytotoxicity.
• Calcium hydroxide-based materials exhibited higher cytotoxicity compared to MTA and Biodentine®.

Conclusions:

• Biodentine® and MTA-based materials show promising biocompatibility for direct pulp capping.
• Calcium hydroxide-based materials present higher cytotoxic effects in vitro.
• Biodentine® may be a suitable alternative to calcium hydroxide materials in pulp-capping treatments.