Aim: To develop an endodontic sealer with amoxicillin-loaded microsphere and to evaluate its properties.
Methods: Experimental sealer was obtained by mixing 70wt% UDMA, 15wt% GDMA and 15wt% BISEMA. In addition, CQ, DHEPT and PB were incorporated at 1 mol% and 0.01wt% BHT and 10wt% YbF3. Microspheres were produced by drying in spray dryer. Two experimental groups (10 and 15wt% of microspheres) and one control group (without microspheres) were formulated. The sealers were evaluated for the degree of conversion (n=3), degradation in solvent (n=3), drug release profile (n=3), antimicrobial activity (n=3), flow (n=3), film thickness (n=3) and cytotoxicity (n=3). Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey with significance level of 5%.
Results: Microespheres presented a mean size of 2.664μm. Immediate degree of conversion ranged from 51.73% to 55.13% and the 24h degree of conversion ranged from 60.79% to 73.80%. Upon solvent degradation 54.44% and 56.21% reduction in hardness were observed for 10% and 15% concentrations respectivelly. The drug release profile showed an average release of 73.76% of the drug in 96h. Significant reduction in antimicrobial activity was observed for 10% concentration after 24h, 48h and 96h compared to control. The flow and film thickness showed values in accordance to the ISO 6876. Cytotoxicity showed high cellular viability.
Conclusion: The addition of up to 10% of microspheres containing amoxicillin presented antimicrobial activity and did not alter the properties of the experimental endodontic cement.
Clinical significance: Amoxicillin microspheres with its antimicrobial activity in root canal sealers could reduce reintervations in endodontics when persistent bacteria or reinfection takes place in root canal system.
Keywords: Amoxicillin; Antimicrobial; Methacrylates; Microspheres; Root canal sealer.
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