Cytotoxicity evaluation of calcium sulfate based temporary filling materials

Components of calcium sulfate based temporary filling materials may have toxicity. Objectives: Purpose was to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of 5 commercial products. Methods: Caviton(GC), Cavit, Cavit-G, Cavit-W(ESPE) and Hi-Seal(Shofu) were evaluated for cytotoxicity by agar overlay test using L-929 mouse fibroblast cell line. Each products were filled into Tefron mold with 6mm diameter and 3mm height, and immersed in 37'C saline for 1 hour to be set. After setting, specimens were stored in 37'C dry chamber for additional 23 hours and removed from mold in clean-bench. Ten ml of 2.5x10⁵ cells/ml were seeded into 90mm Petri dishes and incubated at 37'C in 5% CO₂. After 24hours, 3% agar media were poured on monolayer cells in Petri dishes and stained with 0.01% neutral red dye. Two samples were located on one agar plate with positive (PVC) and negative control (HDPE) and incubated for 24 hours. Width of decolorization zone and percent of lysis were obtained, and toxicity evaluation were done by criteria of ISO 7405. 10 plates for one product were tested. Results: Zone width and lysis percents for each groups are presented as means and s.d. with unit of mm and % respectively, and the determinations are written. Control was marked as *.

All products showed the level of "moderate" or "severe cytotoxicity". Conclusion: Calcium sulfate based temporary filling materials may not be biocompatible, and notice should be given when using on vital tooth, and more systemic toxicity test should be done for the future. Supported by Korea HPEB Grant HMP-00-VN-01-31400-0018. lhonam@khu.ac.kr