Tricalcium silicate induced mineralization for occlusion of dentinal tubules.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the dentinal tubule occluding ability of tricalcium silicate (Ca(3) SiO(5) or C(3) S) in vitro. METHODS: Dentine discs were prepared from extracted caries-free human third molars and etched with 0.02 M citric acid (pH 4) for 3 minutes in order to produce patent dentinal tubules. Tricalcium silicate pastes of different viscosities were applied to the surface of the dentine specimens for 3 minutes and then removed with a swab followed by deionized water rinse. The dentine specimens were immersed in artificial saliva for 7 days. The tubule occlusion, sealing depth and chemical composition of the dentine specimens and bonding force between the dentine matrix and mineralized layer were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and a nanoscratch test. RESULTS: A homogeneous layer of mineral crystals was precipitated onto the dentine surface and caused significant occlusion of the dentinal tubules. The dentine permeability and sealing depth of the C(3) S increased with the decrease of viscosity of the paste. With a proper viscosity of C(3) S pastes, the interface between the mineralized layer and the dentine matrix bonded well. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that C(3) S may be an effective agent for the treatment of dentine hypersensitivity.