Innovative root-end filling materials based on calcium-silicates and calcium-phosphates

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Endodontics
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Root end filling materials are crucial for the success of endodontic surgery.
• Calcium silicate-based cements offer potential advantages due to their bioactivity.
• Evaluating novel cements for apical sealing, bioactivity, and biocompatibility is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the apical sealing ability, bioactivity, and biocompatibility of experimental calcium silicate-based and light-curing cements.
• To compare these properties against a control Portland cement for root end filling applications.

Main Methods:

• In vitro assessment of alkalinising activity (pH) and biocompatibility.
• Apical sealing ability evaluated up to 4 weeks in simulated body fluid (SBF).
• Mineral precipitation and cement adaptation to root dentine assessed via optical microscopy.

Main Results:

• Light-curing cements (LC-CaP, LC-Si/CaP) exhibited neutral pH, superior 24-hour sealing, and excellent cytocompatibility.
• Experimental Portland cement (Exp. PC) showed comparable sealing and biocompatibility to light-curing cements after 2-4 weeks.
• Control Portland cement (Control PC) displayed the poorest sealing ability and highest cytotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• Experimental light-curing cements and the experimental Portland cement show potential as effective root end filling materials.
• These materials demonstrate adequate in vitro sealing ability, biocompatibility, and capacity for mineral precipitation.
• The control Portland cement is less suitable due to inferior sealing and higher cytotoxicity.