Complement activation as a possible in vitro indication of the inflammatory potential of endodontic materials

Samples of four brands of gutta-percha and the nine ingredients that make up one brand were studied in vitro to observe their interaction with the serum complement system, thus allowing for assessment of their possible inflammatory potential. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis of the third complement component was used as an indicator of complement activation. The four different brands of gutta-percha showed comparable complement activation as determined by C3 conversion. When the ingredients of one brand of gutta-percha were examined for complement-activating properties, major activities were associated with gutta-percha compound, agerite stalite-antioxidant, and titanium oxide food grade. The significance of the possible inflammatory potential of gutta-percha and its ingredients, as it relates to endodontic therapy, is discussed.