In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation of different pulp capping materials: a comparative study.

Direct pulp capping covers the exposed surface of the pulp to maintain its vitality and preserve its functional and biologic activity. The aim of the present study was to compare the biocompatibility effects of seven different pulp-capping materials in vitro: Dycal(R), Calcicur(R), Calcimol LC(R), TheraCal LC(R), ProRoot MTA(R), MTA-Angelus(R), and Biodentine(R). Using the Transwell insert methodology by Alamar blue test, we evaluated the cytocompatibility of the above mentioned materials towards murine odontoblasts cells (MDPC-23) at three different times (24, 48, and 72 h). For additional control, the cell viability at 72 hours was also assessed by MTT assay. Morphological analysis of murine odontoblasts was assessed by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope. The results indicate significantly different biocompatibility among materials with different composition. Biodentine(R) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)-based products showed lower cytotoxicity, varying from calcium hydroxide-based materials, which exhibited higher cytotoxicity. Although our findings are limited to in vitro conditions, the observation that Biodentine(R) caused a cytotoxic effect similar to MTA suggests that it may be considered an alternative in pulp-capping treatment, as calcium hydroxide-based materials present higher cytotoxic effects.