Development of a dual-cure mineral trioxide aggregate-based cement: Biological, physical, and mechanical properties

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare the physical, mechanical, and biocompatibility properties of a new dual-cure white mineral trioxide aggregate (D-W-MTA) and a commercial W-MTA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Diametral tensile strength (DTS), water sorption (WSp), and water solubility (WSl) tests were performed. Cytotoxicity was observed in primary culture of human pulp fibroblasts (HPFs) and mouse 3T3/NIH fibroblast lineage. Specimens of both materials were embedded in 1 mL of Dulbecco's modified essential medium for 24 h. Cells were incubated for 24 h with the eluates. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and genotoxicity by micronucleus (MN) formation. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests considering P < 0.05. RESULTS: D-MTA and W-MTA not showed cytotoxic effect on the two cell lines. However, D-MTA stimulated HPF growth. The MN count was similar to that of the control group for D-MTA and W-MTA. D-MTA presented lower DTS and WSl. Nevertheless, WSp was similar in the two groups. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that D-MTA is a promising material for pulp capping. Thus, in vivo tests should be performed to evaluate the performance of this material.