The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of the vaporized root canal medicament on cultured cells.
The cultured cells used in this study were fibroblasts originated in subcutaneous connective tissue of the rat (L-181) and the root canal medicament used was formocresol (FC, Neo Dental chemical Products Co. LTD) .
The cells were grown to monolayers on dish bases, and then were exposed to vaporized FC by means of modified tube method.
24 hours after cell-FC contact, the vaporized FC and tube were removed and the medium tissue was changed.
The cell numbers were counted by Coulter Counter and morphologically observed using scanning electron microscopy and phase contrast microscopy every 24 to 72 hours after medium was changed.
The results obtained were as follows:
1. Cell growth was seriously inhibited by vaporized formocresol.
2. After cell-formocresol contact for 24 hours, cytotoxic effect continued for 72 hours, even if the vaporized formocresol was removed and the medium was changed.
3. Morphological observation showed cell damage indicating noticeable constriction.