Effect of Tricalcium Silicate on Direct Pulp Capping: Experimental Study in Rats

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Histopathology
• Regenerative Endodontics

Background:

• Direct pulp capping is a dental procedure to preserve pulp vitality.
• Material selection is crucial for successful pulp repair and dentin bridge formation.
• Calcium hydroxide (CH) has been traditionally used, but newer materials offer potential advantages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To histologically compare the pulp response to calcium hydroxide (CH), Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), and Biodentine.
• To evaluate the continuity and morphology of the mineralized barrier formed after direct pulp capping.

Main Methods:

• Direct pulp capping was performed on 108 Wistar rat molars using CH, MTA, or Biodentine.
• Histological evaluation of inflammation and mineralized barrier formation was conducted at 7, 14, and 21 days.
• Statistical analysis used the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (p < 0.05).

Main Results:

• MTA and Biodentine groups showed significantly less intense inflammatory reactions compared to the CH group.
• At 21 days, MTA and Biodentine demonstrated superior formation of a continuous and uniform mineralized dentin barrier.
• Histological differences in barrier quality were significant between the groups at 21 days.

Conclusions:

• MTA and Biodentine are more effective than CH in promoting a favorable pulp response.
• These materials induce a more continuous and uniform mineralized barrier, indicating better healing outcomes.
• The findings support the use of MTA and Biodentine for direct pulp capping to enhance dentin bridge formation.