COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF CALCIUM HYDROXIDE AND SILVER NANOPARTICLES AS INTRACANAL MEDICAMENT: AN IN-VIVO STUDY

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide and silver nanoparticles as an intracanal medicament in patients with necrotic/infected pulp. Materials And Methods– 30 single rooted permanent teeth diagnosed clinically and radiographically with necrotic/infected pulp were included. After complete disinfection, access opening was done and working length was determined. The rst microbiological pre-treatment sample (S1) was collected by paper points. After completion of instrumentation, a post-instrumentation sample (S2) was taken and the teeth were divided into two groups: Group 1: calcium hydroxide, Group 2: Silver nanoparticles. The intracanal medicaments were left in place for 7 days. Post 1 week, S3 was taken. Samples collected were cultured on BHI agar and colony forming units were counted after 24 hours. Results- Intergroup comparison was done using Mann Whitney U test & intragroup comparison was done using Friedman test & Wilcoxon test. It was observed that the percentage reduction was better with Group 2 (Silver nanoparticles), however, it was not statistically signicant when compared to Group 1 (Calcium hydroxide). Conclusion – It was concluded that silver nanoparticles showed signicant antimicrobial activity and can be used as an effective root canal medicament as an alternative to calcium hydroxide dressing.