Antibacterial Effect of Nano-based Intra-canal Medicaments against Enterococcus Faecalis

Abstract

Intracanal medicaments have been thought as an important step in killing the bacteria in root canals. The application of nanoparticles in the medication applied between visits was supposed to improve its antibacterial effect. With the introduction of nanotechnology in dentistry, intracanal medicaments could become more effective against bacteria.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of silver nanoparticles incorporated with Calcium hydroxide and Nano Chitosan intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis biofilms formed on root dentin.

Materials and methods: 40 extracted human single rooted permanent teeth were selected; samples were randomly divided into three equal experimental groups eight samples each according to the intracanal medicament used. Group 1 (n=8) Calcium hydroxide with nano silver intracanal medicament was used, group 2 (n=8) Nano chitosan intracanal medicament was used, group 3 (n=8) Nano conventional Calcium hydroxide intracanal medicament was used and two control groups eight samples each (n=8). After inoculation with Enterococcus Faecalis, teeth were injected different intracanal medicaments for 7 days then evaluation of dead and live bacteria percentage was done using Confocal LASER Microscope.

Results: Reduction of Enterococcus faecalis mean percentages were significantly higher in groups 1 and 2 than group 3 regardless the root level and different root regions except the coronal region.

Conclusion: Nano silver and nano Chitosan provide promising antibacterial effect which was proved by Confocal LASER Microscope