Fabrication and Characterization of a Nanofast Cement for Dental Restorations

This study was aimed at fabricating and evaluating the physical and bioproperties of nanofast cement (NFC) as a replacement of the MTA. The cement particles were decreased in nanoscale, and zirconium oxide was used as a radiopacifier. The setting time and radiopacity were investigated according to ISO recommendations. Analysis of color, bioactivity, and cytotoxicity was performed using spectroscopy, simulated body fluid (SBF), and MTT assay. The setting time of cement pastes significantly dropped from 65 to 15 min when the particle sizes decreased from 2723 nm to 322 nm. Nanoparticles provide large surface areas and nucleation sites and thereby a higher hydration rate, so they reduced the setting time. Based on the resulting spectroscopy, the specimens did not exhibit clinically noticeable discoloration. Resistance to discoloration may be due to the resistance of zirconium oxide to decomposition. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) examinations of the immersed SBF samples showed apatite formation that was a reason for its suitable bioactivity. The results of cell culture revealed that NFC is nontoxic. This study showed that NFC was more beneficial than MTA in dental restorations.