In vitro comparison of the cytotoxicity of twelve endodontic materials using a new technique.

An in vitro method for the cytotoxicity testing of endodontic materials is described which aims to simulate the clinical situation. Materials can be tested in the presence or absence of a compacted layer of dentine chips mimicking the periapical dentine plug. A total of twelve materials were tested. In the absence of dentine, Kloroperka, Biocalex, Diaket and Endomethasone were slightly cytotoxic; AH26 with and without silver, Sealapex, Tubliseal and Kerr's pulp canal sealer were moderately cytotoxic, while Forfenan, Spad and Kri paste were strongly cytotoxic. In the presence of dentine the cytotoxicity of these materials was considerably reduced, with the exception of Endomethasone, Forfenan, Spad and Kri paste. The method provides a satisfactory alternative to implantation testing and is an inexpensive and reproducible test system in which dentine can be incorporated.