Development of a Nano-Hybrid Composite Using Bovine Hydroxyapatite and Montmorillonite for Endodontic Applications-An...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Hydraulic calcium silicate cements are crucial in endodontics for their biocompatibility and sealing properties.
• Existing materials like mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) have limitations such as discolouration and poor handling.
• There is a need for improved endodontic cements with enhanced properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel bovine-derived hydroxyapatite (BHA) and montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay hybrid composite.
• To incorporate zirconium oxide for radiopacity and calcium silicate phases for hydraulic setting.
• To evaluate the physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties of the new composite.

Main Methods:

• BHA was sourced from waste bovine bones; MMT clay was exfoliated into nanoclay.
• Composite powders (BHA-MMT) with varying ratios and zirconium oxide were prepared.
• Hydraulic cements were formed and tested for pH, compressive strength, setting time, radiopacity, biocompatibility, bioactivity, and remineralisation in vitro, compared to ProRoot MTA.

Main Results:

• The developed cements exhibited a stable alkaline pH (>11) and compressive strengths between 21.2-23.8 MPa after 21 days.
• Setting times ranged from 13-14 minutes, with heavy metal concentrations within ISO limits.
• BHA-MMT composites showed good cell viability, radiopacity, and enhanced apatite formation/remineralisation, particularly the M20 variant.

Conclusions:

• The novel BHA-MMT composite cements meet ISO standard requirements for physicochemical and biological properties.
• The material demonstrates significant potential for bioactivity and remineralisation.
• Further in vivo studies are warranted to confirm clinical applicability in vital pulp therapies and root-end filling.