Cytotoxicity determination of nano-zinc oxide eugenol on human gingival fibroblast cells

Authors : Siti Khadijah Mohd Bakhori, Shahrom Mahmud, Dasmawati Mohamad, Sam'an Malik Masudi, Azman Seeni

Title of Publication : Cytotoxicity determination of nano-zinc oxide eugenol on human gingival fibroblast cells

Journal Name : Materials Chemistry and Physics

Quartile : Q2

Impact Factor : 4.094

Link : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matchemphys.2021.124649

Description : Zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) is composed of approximately 70% ZnO and approximately 30% eugenol. ZOE has been used in dentistry as a temporary filler, cavity liner, and base for tooth cavities. It is used to form a thin layer of cement to protect the pulp from any influx of bacteria or irritants present in the tooth cavity. Such bacteria and irritants can lead to the formation of an abscess or pus in the gums or periapical tissues. As ZnO has antibacterial effects, it is appropriate to use ZOE as a temporary filler, liner, or base. On the other hand, eugenol alone is acidic and may leach out to have adverse effects on the periapical tissue. Therefore, the toxicity level of ZOE is important to avoid adverse effects or unnecessary dosing. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the potential toxicity of ZOE leaching toward human gingival fibroblast tissue to verify its safety and efficacy by using ZnO particles with different morphologies and sizes. Three types of ZnO powder were used in this study: ZnO-A and ZnO–B (which were produced using the French process) and ZnO–K, which are commercial particles used for ZOE temporary fillers. All three types of ZnO were mixed with eugenol to form ZOE.