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Methacrylate-based root canal sealer containing chlorexidine and α-tricalcium phosphate.
Fabrício Mezzomo Collares1, Vicente Castelo Branco Leitune1, Fernando Freitas Portella1
1Department of Conservative Dentistry, Dental Materials Laboratory, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
This study developed a new methacrylate-based root canal sealer containing chlorhexidine (CHX) and alpha-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP). The sealer demonstrated effective antibacterial properties against Enterococcus faecalis, showing potential for improved endodontic treatments.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Root canal sealers are crucial for endodontic treatment success.
- Incorporating antibacterial agents and bioactive components can enhance sealer performance.
- Chlorhexidine (CHX) and α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) are promising candidates for improved root canal sealers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a novel methacrylate-based root canal sealer.
- To evaluate the effects of chlorhexidine (CHX) and α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) on sealer properties.
- To assess the antibacterial efficacy of the developed sealer against Enterococcus faecalis.
Main Methods:
- Experimental dual-cure methacrylate-based sealers were formulated with varying concentrations of CHX (0-5 wt%) and α-TCP (0-50 wt%).
- Physicochemical properties including flow, film thickness, radiopacity, degree of conversion (DC), degradation in water, and pH were evaluated.
- Antibacterial activity was assessed using direct contact and agar diffusion tests against Enterococcus faecalis.
Main Results:
- All sealers exhibited acceptable flow, film thickness (<50 µm), and radiopacity (≈3 mmAl).
- Degree of conversion (DC) exceeded 60% for all tested compositions.
- Sealants with 5% CHX showed increased water degradation and lower pH, alongside significant antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis.
Conclusions:
- The addition of CHX and α-TCP significantly influenced the physicochemical properties of the methacrylate-based root canal sealer.
- The developed sealer demonstrated potent antibacterial properties, particularly against Enterococcus faecalis.
- This CHX and α-TCP incorporated sealer presents a viable alternative for antibacterial endodontic treatments, potentially aiding periapical healing.
