Objectives. Numerous studies have revealed that conventional glass-ionomer cements might release fluoride into an aqueous environment. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of fluoride on human pulp cells in vitro. Study design. H33258 fluorescence, cell proliferation, protein synthesis, and mitochondrial activity assay were used to investigate the pathobiological effects of fluoride on cultured human pulp cells. Results. Fluoride was found to be a cytotoxic agent to cultured human pulp cells by inhibiting cell growth, proliferation, mitochondrial activity, and protein synthesis. Conclusions. Fluoride release has significant potential for pulpal toxicity.
