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 Sr 2+ , BO 3 3− , SiO 3 2− , Na + , and Al 3+ 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 BO 3 3− and SiO 3 2− , but less Sr 2+ , 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.