Comparative evaluation of antibacterial property, pH, and drug release of calcium hydroxide-loaded nanoparticles as intracanal medicament – In vitro study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Effective endodontic treatment relies on eliminating microbial infections and preventing reinfections. Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH) 2 ) is widely used as an intracanal medicament due to its high pH and antibacterial activity. However, its limited solubility and penetration reduce its efficacy. Nanoparticles (NPs) such as poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and Chitosan have shown promise in enhancing drug delivery and sustained release. Objective: The objective is to evaluate and compare the antibacterial efficacy, pH changes, and in vitro drug release of Ca(OH) 2 alone, Ca(OH) 2 with PLGA NPs, and Ca(OH) 2 with Chitosan NPs as intracanal medicaments. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four single-rooted teeth were divided into three groups: (1) Group 1: Ca(OH) 2 (control), (2) Group 2: Ca(OH) 2 + PLGA, (3) Group 3: Ca(OH) 2 + Chitosan. Antibacterial activity was assessed against Enterococcus faecalis using the agar diffusion method at 1 h, 24 h, and 7 days. pH changes were recorded using a digital pH meter. Drug release was analyzed through a dialysis bag method in phosphate-buffered saline at 37°C, with ultraviolet spectrophotometry at 220 nm. Statistical analysis was done using Analysis of Variance and Tukey’s post hoc test ( P < 0.05). Results: Group 3 (Ca(OH) 2 + Chitosan) showed the largest inhibition zones (15.46 ± 0.16 mm at 24 h; 14.56 ± 0.16 mm at 7 days) and the highest pH (11.71 ± 0.34). Group 2 (Ca(OH) 2 + PLGA) exhibited the most sustained drug release (78.14% ± 2.09% at 7 days). Conclusion: NP incorporation significantly improved the antibacterial efficacy, pH stability, and drug release of Ca(OH) 2 . Chitosan enhanced antimicrobial activity and pH, while PLGA provided superior sustained release. These formulations show potential as advanced intracanal medicaments.
Language: English
Subfield: Oral Surgery
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4411965341