Effect of fluocinolone acetonide on human dental pulp cells: cytotoxicity, proliferation, and extracellular matrix formation.

Introduction: The goal of vital pulp therapy is to maintain pulp vitality and function. Fluocinolone acetonide is a potent topical glucocorticoid used in the treatment of skin disorders and oral lesions that could possibly be used to resolve inflammation and stimulate the healing process of inflamed dental pulp. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of fluocinolone acetonide (0.1-50 μmol/L) on cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, and fibronectin and type I collagen synthesis in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs).

Methods: HDPCs were prepared from freshly extracted human third molars. MTT assay was used to determine toxicity and cell proliferation. Western blot analysis was performed to detect fibronectin and type I collagen synthesis.

Results: Low concentrations of fluocinolone acetonide were not only nontoxic but also significantly stimulated cell proliferation (P < .05). Fluocinolone acetonide significantly stimulated fibronectin and type I collagen synthesis (P < .05).

Conclusions: Low concentrations (0.1-10 μmol/L) of fluocinolone acetonide might have the potential to stimulate healing of inflamed dental pulp.