Impact of Acidic and Alkaline Environments on the Surface Morphology of Biodentine and White Mineral Trioxide Aggregate - An In-vitro Study

Introduction: The physical and chemical properties of calcium silicate cement might be affected due to exposure to acidic or alkaline conditions during clinical use. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of acidic and alkaline environments on the surface morphology of biodentine (BD) and white mineral trioxide aggregate (wMTA).

Materials and method: Disc-shaped specimens of BD (n = 30) and wMTA (n = 30) were prepared in a metal mould and wrapped in pieces of gauze. They were divided into three sub-groups according to the storage media: group A, soaked in sterile distilled water at a pH of 7.0; group B, exposed to butyric acid buffered at pH 4.0; and group C, exposed to calcium hydroxide solution buffered at pH 12.0. The specimens were incubated for 7 days at 37°C, followed by examination under scanning electron microscopy at 1000x and 5000x magnification to characterise the microstructural morphology.

Results: Definite changes were seen in the microstructure of BD and wMTA on exposure to acidic and alkaline pH. The microstructure of wMTA tends to exhibit reduced cohesion when exposed to an acidic environment, especially when compared to an alkaline pH. Acidic pH exerts a milder influence on the morphological structure of BD when contrasted with its effects on wMTA.

Conclusion: Biodentine may emerge as a more prudent choice than wMTA for utilisation in inflamed periapical regions.