In vitro evaluation of a new endodontic cement based on calcium and strontium aluminate

Abstract

Aluminate-based endodontic cements are promising in root canal treatments. Calcium aluminates have been used as bone and dental fillers, due to their fast setting time, good workability, and biocompatibility, overcoming some of the disadvantages of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) currently available. Similarly, strontium aluminates are of interest, due to their potential as hydraulic cement. They have greater radiopacity than their calcium counterparts and the potential to promote osteoblast differentiation which favors bone regeneration. The present study evaluates the in vitro biological properties of the new endodontic cement CS5C (80/20 wt.% of S₃A (tri-strontium aluminate (Sr₃Al₂O₆)) and C₁₂A₇ (dodeca-calcium hepta-aluminate (Ca₁₂Al₁₄O₃₃))). The in vitro ion release tests showed that Al³⁺, Ca²⁺, and Sr²⁺ ions are responsible for the alkaline pH of the medium, promoting antimicrobial activity against all bacterial strains tested. It also showed biocompatible properties, with promising cellular adhesion and proliferation in vitro. The results revealed that CS5S cement has strong potential for future applications as endodontic cement.