Effect of Acid and Fluoride Release from Four Glass Ionomer Cements on Streptococcus mutans: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Objectives: The objective was to evaluate fluoride and acid release from four glass ionomer cements (GICs) over time and to evaluate and compare their effect on Streptococcus mutans over time. Materials and Methods: The fluoride and acid release from the prepared samples (GICs, Miracle Mix, Fuji IX, d-tech ® , Ketac Molar) were measured daily using digital fluoride meter and pH meter, respectively, after placing them in deionized distilled water for 15 days. The water was replaced daily. The samples were aged by placing them in distilled water for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition around the samples (fresh and aged) placed on the bacterial cultures after 48 h of incubation. Mean and standard deviation were calculated. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The antimicrobial activity of the four GICs was greatest immediately after the cements were mixed. The greatest fluoride and acid release was from d-tech. Conclusion: Both acid and fluoride release that contributed to the antibacterial activity of the Glass ionomer cements reduced significantly as the cement aged.