Human root dentin microhardness and degradation by triple antibiotic paste and calcium hydroxide

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Endodontics
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Regenerative endodontics aims to replace damaged dentin and pulp tissue.
• Triple antibiotic paste (ciprofloxacin-metronidazole-clindamycin) and calcium hydroxide are common medicaments.
• Understanding their effects on root dentin is crucial for treatment success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of triple antibiotic paste and calcium hydroxide on human root dentin microhardness and degradation.
• To evaluate the influence of different vehicles (distilled water and propylene glycol) on these effects.

Main Methods:

• 60 human single-rooted teeth were divided into six groups, including medicament treatments and controls.
• Vickers microhardness testing was performed after 1 and 2 months.
• Raman spectroscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analyzed dentin chemistry and structure.

Main Results:

• Both triple antibiotic paste and calcium hydroxide reduced dentin microhardness when combined with propylene glycol.
• Raman and EDS spectroscopy revealed significant collagen degradation in teeth treated with propylene glycol-based medicaments.
• Using distilled water as a vehicle resulted in higher microhardness and less degradation.

Conclusions:

• Propylene glycol as a vehicle can enhance medicament diffusion but degrades dentin collagen and reduces microhardness.
• Distilled water is a safer vehicle for preserving dentin integrity in regenerative endodontics.
• Further clinical trials are needed for new formulations to optimize disinfection and tooth strength.