Antibacterial Efficacy of Nanoparticle-Incorporated Root Canal Sealer against Common Endodontic Pathogens - An in vitro Study

Infection caused by microorganisms play a crucial role in the induction of inflammation of pulpal as well as the periapical tissues. Factors like improper disinfection or obturation of the root canal space contributes to the failure of the root canal treatment. The aim of the study was to modify the contents of MTA-based sealer with nanoparticles and check for its antibacterial efficacy against E. faecalis. Silver nanoparticles (10 nm) were incorporated in MTA based sealer at various concentrations to form the test product. The antibacterial efficacy of the modified sealer was tested by well diffusion test on E. faecalis. The zone of inhibition (mm) was checked for each test product. Analysis of the results showed significant diameters of zones of inhibition (mm) as compared to sealer without nanoparticles. The zone of inhibition increased with the increase in the concentration of silver nanoparticles. The silver nanoparticle incorporated sealer can be used in the clinical setup to prevent reinfection of the root canal system and ensure the success of the root canal treatment.