The Effect of Calcium Phosphate Loaded in Chlorhexidine as an Intra-canal Medicament on the Enterococcus Faecalis Biofilm and Dentin Microhardness (An In-Vitro Study)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate calcium phosphate nanoparticles loaded in chlorhexidine in terms of its antimicrobial effect against E. faecalis and its effect on the microhardness of radicular dentin. Seventy extracted human single rooted teeth were used in this study. Decoronation was performed followed by instrumentation, disinfection and sterilization. Samples were divided into two parts, according to the method of evaluation and each part was subdivided into groups according to the medicament used: • Part 1: Antimicrobial effect evaluation. o Group A: Control. o GroupB: 20% Amorphous calcium phosphate nanoparticles in chlorhexidine. o GroupC: 2% Chlorhexidine. o GroupD: Calcium hydroxide. • Part 2: Microhardness changes evaluation. o Group A: 20% Amorphous calcium phosphate nanoparticles in chlorhexidine. o Group B: 2% Chlorhexidine. o Group C: Calcium hydroxide.

After root canal instrumentation, horizontal sectioning was performed obtaining 1mm thick sections that were inoculated with E. faecalis, followed by the application of the medicaments under examination for two weeks. Images of the samples were acquired by the confocal scanning laser microscope. Using the image analysis software ZEN 2012 blue edition, percentage of dead cells were calculated using the LIVE/DEAD technique. Data were collected and statistically analyzed.