Effect of Different Pulp Capping Materials on Pulp Tissue

Objective: The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effect of different pulp capping materials (Biodentine, MTA, calcium hydroxide and zinc oxide eugenol) on the proliferation of human dental pulp tissue compared with an untreated control. Methods: The human dental pulp cells were obtained from extracted primary teeth and cultured in α-MEM with 10% FBS. During the stimulation the medium includes no FBS. From each pulp capping material 12 test specimen were manufactured by mixing the elements on cold plate and pressing in rings with a diameter of 7,068mm². In the control group cells were allowed to proliferate only in α-MEM. Human dental pulp cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) and BrdU (5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine) viability analysis at different times (24h, 48 h and 72h). Results: Compared to the control the proliferation rate was significantly increased in case of calcium hydroxide after 24h (p<0.05, Tukey´s Test). After 48h and 72h the rate decreased significantly compared to the control group (p<0.05). In case of Biodentine and zinc oxide eugenol a significantly reduced proliferation rate could be observed at all times (24h, 48h and 72h). Regarding the groups with MTA no difference of the proliferation rate could be recorded after 24h. However, after 48h and 72h the rate also decreased significantly in the MTA group. Conclusion: Within the limitation of this investigation it can be concluded, that the use of calcium hydroxide showed a positive effect on the proliferation rate of human pulpal tissues. The data implies that MTA, Biodentine and zinc oxide eugenol could not support the proliferation of the used cell cultures significantly.