Abstract
Aim This was to define and compare the in vitro toxicity of grey MTA with that of white MTA on cultured human periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts.
Methods PDL cells were obtained from sound first permanent molars and cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium. Cultures were subjected to different concentrations of grey and white MTA (0.5, 5, 50 and 500 mu g/ml) for 24 h at 37 degrees C. Cells that were not exposed to grey or white MTA served as the negative control. In vitro toxicity was assessed using MTT assay.
Statistics The results were compared using ANOVA and Tukey statistical tests (p<0.05).
Results White MTA presented higher in vitro toxicity than grey MTA. However, the differences were almost insignificant (p>0.05).
Conclusion Both colours of MTA are biocompatible since they were both able to preserve PDL fibroblasts for up to 24 h. MTA is as a promising alternative in pulpotomy of primary teeth.