In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation of a novel root repair material.

INTRODUCTION This study examined the effect of a new bioactive dentin substitute material (Biodentine) on the viability of human gingival fibroblasts. METHODS Biodentine, White ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), and glass ionomer cement were evaluated. Human gingival fibroblasts were incubated for 1, 3, and 7 days both in the extracts from immersion of set materials in culture medium and directly on the surface of the set materials immersed in culture medium. Fibroblasts cultured in Dulbecco modified Eagle medium were used as a control group. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by flow cytometry, and the adhesion of human gingival fibroblasts to the surface of the set materials was assessed by using scanning electron microscopy. The data of cell cytotoxicity were analyzed statistically by using a one-way analysis of variance test at a significance level of P< .05. RESULTS Cells exposed to extracts from Biodentine and MTA showed the highest viabilities at all extract concentrations, whereas cells exposed to glass ionomer cement extracts displayed the lowest viabilities (P< .05). There was no significant difference in cell viabilities between Biodentine and MTA during the entire experimental period (P> .05). Human gingival fibroblasts in contact with Biodentine and MTA attached to and spread over the material surface after an overnight culture and increased in numbers after 3 and 7 days of culture. CONCLUSIONS Biodentine caused gingival fibroblast reaction similar to that by MTA. Both materials were less cytotoxic than glass ionomer cement.