Evaluation and comparison of release of calcium, phosphate ion and pH of three commercially available pulp capping materials - An Invitro study

Abstract

Background: The ultimate goal of direct pulp capping is to safeguard the underlying pulp and sustain pulp vitality by rebuilding reparative dentin at the Materio Pulpal Complex, which acts as a "biological seal" to protect the underlying pulp tissues. Calcium hydroxide has been the material of choice for the purpose. However, due to varioius disadvantages Tricalcium silica-based cements are being developed.

Aims: To evaluate and compare pH, calcium, phosphate ion release of premixed Neoputty MTA, dual cured calcium silicate cement (TheraCal PT) and light cured calcium silicate cement (TheraCal LC).

Materials and Methods

Neoputty MTA, dual cured calcium silicate cement (TheraCal PT) and light cured calcium silicate cement (TheraCal LC) were prepared and immersed in distilled water. Calcium, phosphate and  pH were measured at 6h, 12h, 24h, 7 days, 14 days, 28 days. Following each evaluation, the water was discarded, and the samples were immersed in fresh deionized water. One-way analysis of variance with Tukey’s Honest significant was performed.

Result:

pH of the system increased in the initial seven days. The peak was hit on the seventh day followed by gradual decrease for next 28 days. Calcium release was highest in the initial 6 hours and gradual decrease was seen till 28 days. Phosphate release was highest in the initial 6 hours and gradual decrease was seen till 28 days.

Conclusion

Primarily, TheraCal LC shows highest Calcium and phosphate release, which is beneficial for regeneration of pulp. However, it also shows high pH, more than 8, and hence need to be a concern during clinical use.