Evaluation of the Radiopacity of Pulp Capping Materials

Aim: Many pulp capping materials are commercially available, but the radiopacity levels of these materials are not clearly known. In this study, the radiopacity values of ten different pulp capping materials were evaluated by digital radiography. Material and Methods: Ten different pulp capping materials were prepared and placed in 3 mica plate moulds according to the manufacturer's instructions. In addition, a 1 mm thick molar crown section and an 11-step aluminium penetrometer were prepared for use in this study. After initial setting, the materials were kept at 37 °C in a humid environment. One specimen from each group was radiographed with an aluminium penetrometer and a 1 mm thick molar crown section. The digital radiographic images were transferred to the computer and the radiographic densities of the specimens were determined using the computer programme. After these values were converted to millimetre aluminium (mmAl), one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tamhane tests were applied as statistical analysis. Results: Neoputty (5.19 mmAl) group showed the highest radiopacity values, while Dycal (1.23 mmAl) group showed the lowest radiopacity value (p < 0.05). While the radiopacity values of Dycal, Calcimol LC, Theracal LC, Therecal PT were lower than enamel (p < 0.05); there was no statistically significant difference with dentin (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Among the pulp capping materials tested, MTA-containing pulp capping materials showed acceptable radiopacity and may allow radiological detection during vital pulp treatment.