Comparative evaluation of the physicochemical and biological properties of calcium silicate-based pulp capping materials.

Background: Understanding the performance of calcium silicate-based pulp capping materials is essential for clinicians seeking to preserve pulp vitality in cases of carious exposure, dental trauma, or developmental defects. Objective: This study aimed to compare the physicochemical and biological properties of four pulp capping materials: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), Biodentine®, TheraCal LC, and TheraCal PT. Methods: Compressive strength, shear bond strength to composite resin, radiopacity, in vitro biomineralization, and cytocompatibility with human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) were evaluated under standardized conditions. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05). Results: TheraCal PT exhibited the highest compressive and bond strength (p < 0.001), while MTA showed the greatest radiopacity (p < 0.001). Biodentine and MTA demonstrated superior biomineralization with abundant calcium phosphate crystal formation. In cell viability assays, Biodentine and TheraCal PT performed similarly to the control (p > 0.024), whereas Biodentine and TheraCal LC showed significantly reduced viability (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Resin-modified materials offer advantages in mechanical performance and bonding but may compromise biomineralization and biocompatibility. Water-based materials like MTA remain superior in bioactivity and cellular response. Clinicians should balance physical properties with biological outcomes when selecting pulp capping agents.