Evaluation of the Antibacterial Action of Two Resin-Modified Glass Ionomercements After Incorporation of Chlorhexidine: An In vitro Study

Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial effectiveness of chlorhexidine digluconate (DCHX) when incorporated into two different types of resin-modified glass ionomer cements (CIVMR): Riva Light Cure and Vitremer.

Study Design: This was an experimental In vitro study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting during a 24-hour incubation period.

Methodology: Eighty specimens, each 4 mm in diameter and 2 mm thick, were fabricated from two types of CIVMR, each subdivided into four groups based on DCHX concentration (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%). After 24 hours of storage in saline at 37°C, the specimens were tested for antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans. The data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (p < 0.05).

Results: The Riva Light Cure specimens exhibited a significant reduction in Colony Forming Units (CFU/mL) with the 1% and 2% DCHX concentrations, reducing bacterial counts by over 90%. In contrast, Vitremer showed a statistically significant reduction only at the 2% concentration, with lesser effects at lower concentrations.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the incorporation of DCHX at higher concentrations significantly enhances the antibacterial properties of Riva Light Cure glass ionomer cement. However, the effectiveness of DCHX in Vitremer requires higher concentrations to achieve similar antibacterial outcomes. These findings suggest the potential for targeted antimicrobial enhancements in dental restorative materials.