The efficacy of commercial tooth storage media for maintaining the viability of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts

Abstract Aim To evaluate Save‐A‐Tooth ( SAT ), EMT Toothsaver ( EMT ) and Hank's Balanced Salt Solution ( HBSS ) for their influence on the viability and proliferative capacity of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPDLFs). Methodology Primary HPDLF s were seeded into 96‐well cell culture plates and exposed to SAT , EMT , HBSS and water (negative control) for 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h at room temperature (22 °C). After each exposure time, cell viability was measured through quantifying adenosine triphosphate ( ATP ) using a luminescent dye. The proliferative capacity was also quantified using the PrestoBlue assay after 12 or 24 h storage in each medium. The data were analysed statistically by two‐way anova and post hoc Least Significant Difference ( LSD ) test ( P < 0.05). The morphology of the cells after 12 h storage was also investigated through live/dead viability/cytotoxicity kit together with fluorescence microscopy. Results There was no significant difference in cell viability amongst HBSS , SAT and EMT groups up to 6 h. SAT was effective in maintaining cell viability only up to 12 h and then became detrimental to HPDLF ; after 24 h, the effectiveness of SAT in maintaining cell viability was similar to that of water ( P > 0.05). Amongst all the media, only EMT could maintain the proliferative capacity of HPDLF s significantly higher than the negative control, that is water ( P < 0.05) after 24 h storage. Conclusion EMT maintained the proliferative capacity of HPDLF s after 24 h storage.