Cytotoxic effects of primary tooth root canal filling materials on L929 cell line.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the cytotoxic effects of five different primary tooth root canal filling materials on L929 permanent cell line with MTT assay. METHODS: Kri 1 paste (iodoform), Diapex (iodoform+Ca(OH)(2)), Metapaste (Ca(OH)(2) with distilled water), Dentalis (iodoform+ZOE+Ca(OH)(2)) and Kalsin (Ca(OH)(2) with glycerin) were used in this study. Tested materials were in contact for 24, 48 and 72 hours with L929 cells. At the end of the test periods, MTT test solutions were added to the plates and incubated for 3 hours at 37 degrees C. Then optic densities were read using UV visible spectrophotometer. All assays were repeated three times to ensure reproducibility. The obtained data were analyzed statistically by one-way analysis of variance and Dunnett T3 post hoc test (P<0.05). RESULTS: All tested materials were found cytotoxic on L929 cell line. It was found that Kri 1 paste group showed the highest survival rates. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that the use of Kri 1 paste as a root canal filling material is a better option than other medications in primary teeth. Further research is necessary to determine the effect of root canal filling materials on vital tissues.