Evaluation of cytotoxicity of selected compomers on gingival fibroblasts – ex vivo studies

Abstract

Introduction. Compomers are the result of combining composite materials and glass ionomer cements. Due to their properties, compomers are of interest among medical practitioners, especially pediatric dentists. Aim. The aim of this study was to compare the cytotoxic effect of two selected compomers on human gingival fibroblasts. Material and methods. The assessment was conducted using the MTT test. Twelve samples were prepared for each material. Half of the samples (6 samples) were polymerized for 20 seconds in two layers with a halogen lamp (Polylux II, Kavo) and the other half with a diode lamp (B-Max, Tecno-Gaz, 1600 mW/cm2). Culture plates with cells and inserts with materials were incubated at 37°C, 5% CO2 and 95% humidity for 24 hours. Then the inserts were removed, 1 mL of MTT was added in the amount of 0.5 mg per 1 mL of the medium and samples were incubated in the described conditions without light for 3 hours. The optical density was measured with an absorption spectrophotometer at the 560 nm wavelength. Results. The analysis of the results revealed slight, not statistically significant differences in the cytotoxicity of the tested materials depending on the polymerization source. Conclusions. Research should continue to update information on cytotoxicity issues.