Novel temporary endodontic medication based on calcium silicate strategy: a biological and physicochemical study

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the physicochemical and biological properties of a traditional calcium hydroxide-based cement (Cal) to a novel endodontic material based on calcium silicate strategy in premixed formulation (Bio-C).

Crystalline structure evaluation and pH analysis were performed at different time periods (3-168 h). Contact angle, surface roughness, solubility and flowability of both materials were also investigated. The antibacterial activity of each material was assessed using a direct contact test against Enterococcus faecalis (E.faecalis), and the cytotoxicity was performed by using periodontal ligament cells. Statistical analysis was accomplished using one-way analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

An alkaline pH was observed in both the tested materials. Higher pH values were attained in Cal compared to Bio-C (p < 0.05). Higher flowability, solubility and wettability were attained for Bio-C compared to Cal (p < 0.05). Crystalline structures were observed on the surface of Bio-C after immersion in PBS (168 h). Cal presented higher antibacterial activity compared to Bio-C against E.faecalis. Only undiluted Bio-C extracts demonstrated slight cytotoxicity, while all the other tested specimens had no cytotoxicity.

In conclusion, the novel bioceramic medication might be used as a suitable alternative agent to the traditional calcium hydroxide cements due to its biological and physicochemical properties. However, further studies on the ability of removing Bio-C from root canal are required to determine whether such a temporary bioceramic can ameliorate root canal treatments.