Effects of chlorhexidine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and sodium hypochlorite on cell viability of human gingival fibroblasts in vitro

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of chlorhexidine (CHX), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) irrigants on human gingival fibroblasts. Materials and Methods: Gingival fibroblasts were cultured in Dulbecco Modified Eagle Medium for 24 h. Then, the cells were exposed for 1 min to different concentrations of CHX, EDTA, and NaOCl and the cell viability was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide tetrazolium reduction assay. The percentage of gingival fibroblast viability was compared to control (100% viability). Results: All concentrations of CHX, EDTA, and NaOCl were cytotoxic to gingival fibroblasts compared to control group and this effect was dose-dependent (P 0.05). Conclusion: The cytotoxic effect of CHX, EDTA, and NaOCl on gingival fibroblasts was dose-dependent. Further studies are needed to assess and optimize the safety and efficacy of these irrigants in vivo.