Comparison of cytotoxicity test models for evaluating resin-based composites

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Toxicology

Background:

• Resin-based composites (RBCs) are widely used in dentistry.
• Evaluating the biocompatibility of RBCs is crucial for patient safety.
• Different cytotoxicity testing models exist, but their consistency needs evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare different cytotoxicity test models for RBCs.
• To assess the biocompatibility of standard and bulk-fill RBCs.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of cure in relation to cytotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Standard (spectrum TPH) and bulk-fill (SDR) RBCs were tested.
• Specimens of 2 and 4 mm thickness were prepared and polymerized.
• Micro-hardness and three cytotoxicity tests (direct, indirect, extract) using L-929 cells were performed.

Main Results:

• Lower hardness and higher cytotoxicity were observed for TPH at 4mm.
• SDR demonstrated biocompatibility at 4mm across all tested models.
• Strong correlations were found between hardness ratio, cell viability, and the different test models.

Conclusions:

• Direct, indirect, and extract cytotoxicity test models showed consistency for RBC evaluation.
• Bulk-fill RBCs are biocompatible when placed and cured at 4mm thickness.
• The study validates the reliability of these cytotoxicity testing methods for dental materials.