In Vitro Bioactivity and Biocompatibility of Dicalcium Silicate Cements for Endodontic Use

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to examine the in vitro bioactivity and biocompatibility of sol-gel-derived dicalcium silicate cements. Methods: The morphology, phase composition, and compressive strength of the novel cement were investigated after immersion in a simulated body fluid for different periods of time. Cement biocompatibility was evaluated by incubating the cement specimens with MG63 human osteoblast-like cells. Results: After immersion in a simulated body fluid as little as 1 hour, the cements were covered with clusters of bone-like apatite spherulites. The characteristic peaks of apatite at 2 theta = 25.9 degrees and 31.8 - 32.9 degrees appeared. The compressive strength of the cement was increased from the initial strength value of 12.3 MPa to 1-day strength value of 20.2 MPa; these values were significantly different (P < .05). The MG63 cell viability increased 15% and 23% on the cement surfaces when compared with the control on hour 6 and day 7 of incubation, respectively. The cells appeared flat and exhibited intact, well-defined morphology on the cement surface. Conclusions: Both bioactivity and biocompatibility of the dicalcium silicate cement consistently make it a potential candidate for endodontic use. (J Endod 2009,35:1554-1557)