Antimicrobial Efficacy of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Their Combinations Against Enterococcus faecalis...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Microbiology
• Endodontics

Background:

• The emergence of resistant bacterial strains necessitates novel antimicrobial agents.
• Enterococcus faecalis is a common pathogen in persistent endodontic infections.
• Intracanal medicaments play a crucial role in root canal disinfection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs).
• To assess the combined antimicrobial effect of SWCNTs with calcium hydroxide and chlorhexidine.
• To determine the zone of inhibition against Enterococcus faecalis.

Main Methods:

• Five experimental groups were established: SWCNTs, calcium hydroxide, chlorhexidine, SWCNTs + calcium hydroxide, and SWCNTs + chlorhexidine.
• Antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition against E. faecalis in vitro.
• Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests.

Main Results:

• The combination of single-walled carbon nanotubes and chlorhexidine exhibited the highest antimicrobial efficacy.
• This synergistic effect was significantly greater than individual components or SWCNTs with calcium hydroxide.
• All tested groups showed some level of antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis.

Conclusions:

• A blend of single-walled carbon nanotubes and chlorhexidine demonstrates significant antimicrobial effectiveness.
• This combination holds potential for development into a potent intracanal medicament.
• Further research is warranted to explore its clinical applicability in endodontics.