Application of a direct pulp capping cement containing S-PRG filler.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate new pulp capping cements containing surface pre-reacted glass ionomer (S-PRG) filler and to investigate ion release kinetics and pH shift of eluates from the cement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Molars of Wistar rats were directly pulp capped using three kinds of cement containing S-PRG filler and mineral tri-oxide aggregate (MTA) was used as a control. After 1, 2, or 4 weeks, histological evaluation was performed and differences of tertiary dentin formation were analyzed. Release of Sr2+ , BO3 3- , SiO3 2- , Na+ , and Al3+ ions was determined by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry, and F- ion release was measured using a fluoride ion selective electrode. The pH of the eluate from each cement after mixing was measured with a pH electrode.

RESULTS: One of S-PRG cements promoted tertiary dentin formation to the same extent as the control (p > 0.05) and it showed a tendency of less inflammatory response. This cement released more BO3 3- and SiO3 2- , but less Sr2+ , Na+ , and F- than other S-PRG specimens. Each cement recovered nearly neutral compared with glass ionomer cement.

CONCLUSIONS: S-PRG cement induced tertiary dentin formation based on multiple ion releases, suggesting that it is suitable as a pulp capping material.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This new material can be an alternative pulp capping agent to MTA.