Resin-based sealant containing sol–gel derived bioactive glass: ion release and biological response

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of bioactive glass (BAG) loading on the ion release, pH changes, and cell response of the experimental pit and fissure sealant containing sol–gel derived 58S BAG. The BAG and silica filler in different proportion were incorporated into a resin matrix with the final filler loading of 50% in all groups. The specimens were immersed in deionized water (pH 5.8) or lactic acid solution (pH 4.0) at different time points (6 h, 1, 7, 14, 30, and 45 days) for ion release and pH changes assessment. Biological properties were evaluated using MTS assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assays, and alizarin red staining. In the deionized water, the BAG50% group pH reaches to 9.3 and in lactic acid solution to 4.31 after 45 days. The BAG filler percentage did not have a significant effect on ion release in the deionized water. However, ion release increased with the pH reduction, particularly in the BAG50% group. The BAG50% group showed less cytotoxicity and higher ALP activity and calcified nodule formation. The experimental pit and fissure sealant with 50% BAG filler loading exhibited an appropriate increase in pH elevation, ion release, and cell proliferation and differentiation. Therefore, it can be concluded that this bioactive sealant has the potential to hinder secondary caries and can be used as a caries-inhibiting material.