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

ObjectivesTo 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 methodsMolars 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 4weeks, histological evaluation was performed and differences of tertiary dentin formation were analyzed. Release of Sr2+, BO33-, SiO32-, 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.ResultsOne 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 BO33- and SiO32-, but less Sr2+, Na+, and F- than other S-PRG specimens. Each cement recovered nearly neutral compared with glass ionomer cement.ConclusionsS-PRG cement induced tertiary dentin formation based on multiple ion releases, suggesting that it is suitable as a pulp capping material.Clinical relevanceThis new material can be an alternative pulp capping agent to MTA.