ASSESSMENT OF CYTOTOXICITY CAUSED BY DENTURES ON HaCaT CELL LINE

Doina Chioran, Cristina Modiga, Cosmin Sinescu, Andreea-Codruta Novac, Cristian Zaharia, Mircea Rivis, Ciprian Roi, Diana Nica, Adrian Nicoara, Andrei Uritu, Andreea-Violeta Ardelean, Edward-Ronald Azar, Meda-Lavinia Negrutiu

DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2026.2.18.5

ABSTRACT

Aim of the study: This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of four types of complete denture materials—milled, injected, classical (heat-cured), and 3D-printed—on HaCaT human keratinocyte cells after exposure to artificial saliva with varying pH levels, simulating oral environmental conditions. Materials and methods: Artificial saliva solutions with acidic (pH 3), neutral (pH 7.05), and basic (pH 9.12) values were prepared and used to incubate each denture type for 7 days. The resulting extracts were applied to HaCaT keratinocyte cultures. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, a standard colorimetric test for cytotoxicity, with absorbance measured at 570 nm. Results: None of the four denture types showed significant cytotoxicity in any pH condition. Minor variations in cell viability were observed, with classical and printed prostheses showing slightly reduced viability under acidic conditions, while milled prostheses exhibited stable or improved viability. All samples maintained cell viability within acceptable biological limits. Conclusions: All tested denture materials demonstrated good biocompatibility with HaCaT keratinocytes in vitro, even under varying pH conditions mimicking the oral environment. These findings support the safe use of modern and conventional denture fabrication methods and highlight the relevance of HaCaT cells as a predictive model for mucosal compatibility. Further long-term and in vivo studies are recommended.