Fluorinated graphene-modified biodentine: an in vitro study on its ion release, cell growth, differentiation potential, and compressive strength

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated Biodentine (BD) after modification with 2 wt% fluorinated graphene (FG).

Methods: FG was prepared using the modified Hummers’ method, where sulfuric and phosphoric acids were added to fluorinated graphite and potassium permanganate. The mixture was heated, sifted, filtered, and centrifuged to obtain FG powder. Characterization was performed using XRD, FTIR, TEM, and SEM/EDX. PH was evaluated, And Ca And F ion release were assessed by inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy and ion chromatography, at days 1,14, And 28. Cell viability was performed using the MTT Assay on pulp stem cells, while ALP assay was evaluated by a spectrophotometer. Compressive strength was evaluated by a universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was performed on the data (p ≤ 0.05).

Results: Graphene and C-F bonds of FG were confirmed in XRD and FTIR, while nanosheets were detected in TEM. SEM/EDX showed more surface roughness in modified BD-FG. pH And Ca ion release results showed significantly higher values at day 1 for modified BD-FG, with significantly higher cumulative Ca ion release. Cell viability results showed no significant difference between modified And unmodified Biodentine at days 1 And 7; however, modified BD-FG showed significantly lower values at day 3. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in ALP, while the BD-FG group showed significantly higher compressive strength.

Conclusion: Incorporating 2 wt% FG into BD increases ion release, hydroxyapatite formation, and mechanical properties without compromising cell viability and differentiation.

Clinical relevance: The addition of FG enhanced the bioactivity of Biodentine and improved its strength without showing cytotoxicity, making it a promising approach that needs further study.