Evaluation of a Newly Formulated Anti- bacterial Flowable Composite Material

Abstract

This research aimed at investigating the antibacterial effect of Octenidine dihydrochloride when incorporated in an experimental dental flowable resin composite material. Different concentrations were used and tested in order to increase the antibacterial effect without compromising the mechanical properties of the resin composite. A commercially available flowable resin composite material (Herculite Ultra Flowable by Kerr Corporation) was used as a control group in this study. The following properties were tested: diametral tensile strength, compressive strength, flexural strength, water sorption, solubility, degree of conversion, dentin bond strength, and the antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus casei at different time intervals. Eight similar specimens were made for every test in each group, and all specimens were tested for all the previous properties. Diametral tensile strength test was conducted by subjecting cylindrical specimens to compressive loading using the universal testing machine till the point of fracture. The load was applied vertically on the lateral portion of the cylindrical specimen, producing tensile stresses perpendicular to the vertical plane passing through the center of the specimen. The fracture load was then recorded and the ultimate diametral tensile strength was calculated according to a mathematical equation. As for the compressive strength test, it was done by subjecting cylindrical specimens to compressive loading using the universal testing machine till fracture occurred. Where the compressive st