Microscopic and elemental characterization of hydrated dental pulp capping agents

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Regenerative Dentistry

Background:

• Pulp capping agents are crucial for vital pulp therapy.
• Material characteristics influence pulpal cell interaction and treatment outcomes.
• Microscopic characterization aids in understanding material behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To microscopically characterize five calcium silicate-based pulp capping agents after hydration.
• To evaluate the surface morphology, elemental composition, and crystalline phases.
• To correlate material characteristics with potential for reparative dentin formation.

Main Methods:

• Five calcium silicate-based materials (MTA Angelus, Biodentine, TheraCal LC, ApaCal ART, Endocem MTA) were hydrated for 14 days.
• Characterization included Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Energy Dispersive Analysis (EDX), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD).
• pH analysis of the storage solution was also performed.

Main Results:

• SEM revealed crystalline deposition; Biodentine showed the most homogenous microstructure.
• EDX analysis indicated high calcium concentration, with Biodentine (42.59 wt.%) and MTA Angelus (38.51 wt.%) having the highest surface calcium.
• XRD confirmed the presence of tricalcium silicate and calcium hydroxide in all materials after hydration.

Conclusions:

• Higher surface calcium levels in Biodentine and MTA Angelus may promote reparative dentin formation.
• Endocem MTA and ApaCal ART, with fast-setting properties and lower calcium, are potential alternatives for vital pulp therapy.
• Microscopic characterization provides insights into the suitability of these materials for dental applications.