Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to test the calcium hydroxide associated with vehicles Aloe vera, chlorhexidine digluconate (2%) and saline, in inhibiting bacterial growth on Mueller-Hinton agar plates.Methods: The species Staphiloccocus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli and Enterecoccus faecalis were isolated and inoculated in 3 mL of BHI (Brain Heart Infusion). Holes (5 mm diameter) were made in the plates and filled with the test materials. After incubation, readings were taken with a hand lens and a caliper with 0.1 mm accuracy to determine the diameter of the inhibition zone, after 24 and 48 hours. Each experiment was repeated six times, and the average values were obtained.Results: Chlorhexidine digluconate without calcium hydroxide resulted in better inhibition of bacterial growth, followed by the hydroxide pastes evaluated. E. coli strains were the most resistant to the tested compounds, followed by S. pyogenes and S. aureus. There was no statistically significant interaction between the variables.Conclusion: Chlorhexidine digluconate (2%) alone showed the best antimicrobial effectiveness. Aloe vera is a promising vehicle for the calcium hydroxide but more studies should be conducted on herbal medicines in dentistry.
Highlights
Teeth with radiographically visible periapical lesions have variations in their internal anatomy that can interfere with the success of the cleaning and disinfection of the root canals
Calcium hydroxide delivered with different vehicles (Aloe vera, saline and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate) resulted in inhibition zones that were characteristic of bacterial sensitivity
Calcium hydroxide associated with different vehicles (Aloe vera, saline and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate) produced satisfactory inhibition zones that were characteristic of bacterial sensitivity (Tables 1 and 2)
Summary
Teeth with radiographically visible periapical lesions have variations in their internal anatomy that can interfere with the success of the cleaning and disinfection of the root canals. The number of bacteria remaining after chemicalmechanical instrumentation can be reduced by a temporary dressing, providing an environment conducive to periapical repair. Intracanal dressings are crucial for the success of endodontic treatments [1,2]. Calcium hydroxide has been widely used for this purpose, as its high alkalinity (pH 12.5) destroys bacterial cell membranes, denatures proteins and damages DNA [3]. Different vehicles have been added to calcium hydroxide to facilitate and improve its action. The chosen vehicle is important during this process due to its chemical and physical properties and, its application. The vehicle has a significant effect on the antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide [7]
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