An in vitro study of the role of dentine in moderating the cytotoxicity of zinc oxide eugenol cement.

The protective role of different dentine fractions and of dentine slices in moderating the cytotoxicity of zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) was investigated. The collagen fraction of dentine powder provided increased protection over intact powder. Slices of dentine offered greater protection probably by providing a physical barrier to the diffusion of eugenol which may also bind to the contents of the dentine tubules. With increasing thickness of the dentine slices this protection was increased. ZOE stimulated calcium release from dentine but in view of the low levels attained it is unlikely that this process has any significant effect on the protective role of dentine.