Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Several Pulp Capping Materials

Statement of the Problem:

 Adequate compressive strength is an important characteristic for an ideal liner.

This study aimed to assess the compressive strength of several commonly used liners.

This in vitro, experimental study evaluated 120 samples fabricated of Dycal, Calcimol LC, Vitrebond, Activa Bioactive, and TheraCal LC (n=24) liners according to the manufacturers’ instructions. The samples were fabricated using a cylindrical stainless steel mold with 6±0.1 mm height and 4±0.1 mm internal diameter. Half of the samples in each group (n=12) underwent compressive strength test immediately after completion of their primary setting while the other half (n=12) underwent compressive strength test after 24 h. During this period, the samples were immersed in deionized water (grade 3) and incubated at 37±1°C and 100% humidity for 24 h. The compressive strength was measured using a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test.

The compressive strength of the five liners was significantly different (p < 0.05). Calcimol LC showed maximum compressive strength both immediately after setting and after 24 h. The compressive strength at 24 h was significantly higher than the primary compressive strength in all groups (p < 0.05).

Within the limitations of this study, it seems that Calcimol LC, Activa Bioactive Liner, and TheraCal LC have adequate compressive strength and can be used alone to provide adequate support for the restorative materials.