Effect of different root canal irrigants on surface roughness and microhardness of Biodentine combined with triple antibiotic paste: An in vitro study.

Background: Biodentine is widely used for endodontic applications; recently, it has been incorporated with triple antibiotic paste (TAP). The effect of endodontic irrigants on the physical characteristics of this new combination needs to be studied. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the surface roughness and microhardness of Biodentine incorporated with TAP subjected to various endodontic irrigants. Materials and Methods: Hundred cylindrical discs (6 mm × 3 mm) were prepared by mixing the Biodentine with TAP (3:1). The specimens were subjected to different irrigating solutions for 5 min in 5 groups (n = 20): Group 1: distilled water (control), Group 2: 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, Group 3: 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, Group 4: 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), and Group 5: 2% chitosan nanoparticles (CSNs). Half of the specimens in each group were subjected to surface roughness (n = 10) and another half to microhardness (n = 10). Surface roughness was measured using a surface roughness tester, and digital Vickers microhardness testing was performed on each specimen. Statistical Analysis: One-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's tests (P ≤ 0.05) were used. Results: The highest microhardness was found with 2% CSN, whereas 2% CSN and 2% CHX had a minimal effect on the surface roughness of Biodentine incorporated with TAP (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The root canal irrigant 2% CSN exhibited the highest microhardness and least surface roughness of modified Biodentine with TAP.

Prevalence of dental caries among coronavirus disease 2019-recovered patients and correlation with salivary total antioxidant capacity in Kalaburagi region of Indian subpopulation.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has vastly affected mankind worldwide, and its long-term effect on oral health needs to be studied. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of dental caries and its correlation with salivary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in Kalaburagi region of the Indian subpopulation. Methods: About 80 subjects (16-55 years) were included in the study based on selection criteria and were divided into two groups (n = 40). Group 1: no history of COVID-19 infection and Group 2: COVID-19-recovered subjects. Each group was subdivided into two subgroups (n = 20) A and B with and without dental caries. Dental caries was assessed using the decay, missing, filled, treatment (DMFT) index by the World Health Organization. About 5 ml of unstimulated saliva samples was collected and centrifuged at 2000 rpm for 10 min, and the supernatants were collected. Salivary TAC was estimated using 2,2'-azino-bis-[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic] acid assay and observed under spectrophotometer (734 nm). Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality distribution followed by one-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test (P < 0.05). Results: COVID-19-recovered subjects showed a higher prevalence of dental caries and lower TAC levels than non-COVID-19 subjects. Conclusion: Higher prevalence of dental caries with lower levels of salivary TAC was found in COVID-19-recovered individuals.

Evaluation of fracture resistance of maxillary premolars of different geometrical cavities restored with different composite resins incorporated with chitosan nanoparticles.

Background: Composites with 0.2% chitosan nanoparticles (CSN) are used recently; however, this combination needs to be studied in different cavity designs. Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the fracture resistance of maxillary premolars with different cavity geometries restored with different types of composite resins incorporated with 0.2% CSN. Methods: About 130 extracted human single-rooted maxillary premolars were embedded in acrylic molds 2 mm below cementoenamel junction, divided into five groups for cavity preparations of standardized dimensions. Group 1: (control) intact teeth (n = 10), Group 2: Class I cavities (n = 40), Group 3: Class II mesio-occlusal (MO) (n = 40), Group 4: Class II mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) (n = 40). Groups 2, 3, and 4 were subdivided into four subgroups for composite restoration; A: Neo spectra ST-Universal (NST); B: Tetric N-Ceram Bulk-fill (TNC); C: NST + CSN; and D: TNC + CSN and tested for fracture resistance using universal testing machine. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey's tests were used for data analysis (P ≤ 0.05). Results: In all groups, the highest fracture resistance was found in MOD cavities, followed by MO and least in Class I cavities. Subgroup D (TNC with CSN) showed the highest fracture resistance in all groups (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Tetric N-Ceramic bulk fill with 0.25% CSN showed high fracture resistance in cavities with different geometries.

In vitro comparative evaluation of antioxidative effect of selenium alone and in combination with green tea and alpha-tocopherol on the shear bond strength of universal composite resin to enamel after in-office bleaching.

Background: Antioxidant application soon after bleaching process increases the shear bond strength (SBS) of composite resin to enamel. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant effects of selenium alone and in combination with alpha-tocopherol (αT) and green tea (GT) on SBS of composite resin to enamel following in-office bleaching with 38% hydrogen peroxide (HP). Methods: Sixty extracted human single -rooted premolar teeth were cleaned and embedded in acrylic resin blocks at the level of cementoenamel junction(CEJ) followed by bleaching with 38% hydrogen peroxide (HP) and arbitrarily divided into seven groups (n=10) for antioxidant application: Group I (negative control): intact teeth, Group II (positive control): only bleaching, Group III: 10% selenium (Se), Group IV: 10% alpha tocopherol (αT), Group V: 10% αT +10% Se, Group VI: 10% Green tea (GT), Group VII: 10%GT+10% Se. In all groups, self-etch adhesive was applied and composite restoration was done, and specimens were stored in distilled water for 24h followed by SBS evaluation. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey's tests were used (P < 0.05). Results: The highest SBS was found in negative control Group I (intact teeth) and least in positive control Group II (bleached teeth), whereas in experimental groups, Group VII (GT + Se) showed highest followed by Groups V (αT + Se), III (Se), and VI (GT) and least in Group IV (αT). Conclusion: Combination of selenium with green tea and alpha tocopherol enhanced the SBS of composite resin following in-office bleaching.

Evaluation of cytotoxic effects of fungal origin nanosilver particles on oral cancer cell lines: An in vitro study.

Background: Oral cancer is often associated with poor prognosis and it is found that conventional treatment options cause severe side effects, adjacent tissue disfigurement, and loss of function. Recently, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) paved their path for cancer treatment. Aim: This study aimed to investigate cytotoxic effects of fungal procured AgNPs on oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC-9) cell line using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Methodology: The silver nanoparticles were biosynthesized using the fungi Fusarium semitectum. Cell lines were cultured in a 1:1 ratio of Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's medium and Ham's F12 medium and subcultured in a T-75 cm2 flask. Cell count was adjusted to 1 × 105 cells/ml; 50,000 cells/well were seeded into a 96 well plate and incubated at 37°C, for 24 h in 5% CO2 humidified conditions. AgNPs (1.75-50 µl/ml) were added to the plates and further incubated at 37°C for another 24 h. Medium containing cells without AgNPs were used as a control group. Later, 20 µl of MTT was added to each well and incubated for 6 h at above-mentioned conditions. About 0.1 mL of Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium solution was added to each well to solubilize formazan. The absorbance was measured using a Tecan reader at 540 nm. The experiment was repeated thrice independently. The percentage (%) inhibition of growth and the AgNP's concentration that prevents the cell growth by 50% (IC50) were determined. Results: Significant dose-dependent inhibition of the growth of SCC-9 cell lines was seen and IC50 was found at 12 µl/ml concentration of AgNPs. Conclusion: Biosynthesized AgNPs of fungal origin exhibit effective anticancer properties against the SCC-9 cell line.

Evaluation of push-out bond strength of different concentrations of chitosan nanoparticles incorporated composite resin and eighth-generation bonding agent for class II restoration: An in vitro study.

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the push-out bonding strength of class II cavities of maxillary molars restored with different concentrations of chitosan nanoparticles (CSN) incorporated in universal composite resin and eighth-generation dentin bonding agent (DBA). Materials and Methods: Seventy extracted human maxillary first molar teeth were cleaned and mounted in acrylic mold up to 2 mm below cementoenamel junction and mesio-occlusal Class II cavities with standard measurements were prepared. CSN 2% and 0.25% powder were added to the DBA and composite resin. The samples then arbitrarily divided into three groups for restoration: Group 1: composite restoration without CSN (control group) (n = 10), Group 2: 2% CSN (n = 30), and Group 3: 0.25% CSN (n = 30). Groups 2 and 3 were further subdivided into three subgroups (n = 10 each) subgroup A. CSN incorporated in composite resin. B. CSN incorporated in DBA and C. CSN incorporated in composite and DBA. After restoration, push-out bond strength was evaluated in each sample using a universal testing machine, and data collected were statistically analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Post hoc Tukey tests (P ≤ 0.05). Results: Subgroup 3A (0.25% CSN + composite) has shown an increase in bond strength among all experimental groups with no significant difference between group 1 (control group). Conclusion: CSN 0.25% incorporated in composite or DBA exhibits no harmful effect on the bond strength of class II restorations. Hence, it can be used to improve the antibacterial action and longevity of composite resin.

Unusual Variant of Unicystic Ameloblastoma with CEOT-Like Areas: A Rare Case Report with Review of Literature.

Ameloblastoma is an epithelial odontogenic neoplasm with clinical and histological diversity. They are locally invasive tumors with 3 clinical variants such as solid, unicystic, and peripheral ameloblastomas, and the unicystic variant constitutes only 13%. Histologically, it shows diverse microscopic patterns that may occur isolated or in combination with other patterns. The granular cell variant accounts for 3.5% of all ameloblastoma cases. The eosinophilic granules seen in the cytoplasm of the tumor are thought to be lysosomes and presumably contribute to the pathogenesis of the tumor. Although such a phenomenon is rare in unicystic ameloblastoma, granular cell differentiation in solid multicystic ameloblastoma is a well-established phenomenon. In this paper, we present a unique case of unicystic ameloblastoma with granular cell differentiation with a brief review.

Comparison of Time-kill Assay to Evaluate the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Garlic (Allium sativum) and Guava (Psidium guajava) Extracts on Periodontal Pathogens.

BACKGROUND: The role of Gram-negative anaerobic periodontal pathogens in periodontal diseases has led to the loss of tooth-supporting structures. These diseases can be prevented by the inhibition of bacterial biofilm on the tooth surfaces. Many treatment modalities have been tried to prevent periodontal diseases. With the rise in resistance to synthetic antimicrobials, there is a requirement to develop natural antimicrobials for the control of periodontitis. AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of garlic (Allium sativum) and guava (Psidium guajava) extracts on Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans using time-kill assay. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aqueous garlic extract (AGaE), ethanolic garlic extract (EGaE), aqueous guava extract (AGuE), and ethanolic guava extract (EGuE) were prepared. Time-kill assays were performed on P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of guava and garlic were compared to assess the maximum bactericidal potency. RESULTS: The comparison of time-kill assay of AGaE and AGuE on P. gingivalis showed a statistically significant difference at 2 h (t = 5.29, P < 0.01), 4 h (t = -4.867, P < 0.01), and 6 h (t = -3.647, P < 0.001). The comparison of time-kill assay of EGaE and EGuE on A. actinomycetemcomitans showed a statistically significant difference at 2 h (t = 4.54, P < 0.01) and highly significant difference at 4 h (t = 6.57, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The, judicious use of these phytomedicinal products could be cost-effective and also the adverse effects caused due to the long-term usage of synthetic antimicrobials can be avoided.

Cytotoxicity evaluation of fungal-derived silver nanoparticles on human gingival fibroblast cell line: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been proposed as effective antimicrobial agents against endo-perio pathogens. Determination of cytotoxicity is important for effective clinical use. AIM: The aim is to determine the cytotoxicity of fungal-derived AgNPs on human gingival fibroblast (HGF) cell line using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. MATERIALS AND METHODS: HGF cell cultures were trypsinized and adjusted to 5 × 103 cells/ml and 100-µl cell suspension (50,000 cells/well) and were added to 96-well plate. After 24 h, 100 µl of AgNPs (8-512-µg/ml concentrations) was added and incubated at 37°C for 24 h in 5% CO2 atmosphere. Controls were used without AgNPs. MTT (1 mg/ml) was added and incubated for 4 h at 37°C in 5% CO2 atmosphere. Microscopic examination was done, and absorbance was measured using a microplate reader at a wavelength of 540 nm. Percentage growth inhibition was calculated, and the concentration of AgNPs needed to inhibit cell growth by 50% (CTC50) was generated. RESULTS: CTC50 was found at a concentration of 260 µg/ml. AgNPs exerted less cytotoxicity against HGF cell line and increased with increase in the concentration of AgNPs. CONCLUSION: Fungal-derived AgNPs are safe to healthy cells at a concentration <260 µg/ml. Therefore, they can be effectively used for the treatment of endo-perio lesions.

Application of e-learning in dental radiology education at undergraduate level ­a systematic review / Aplicação do e-learning no ensino de radiologia dentária em nível de graduação - uma revisão sistemática

With the increase in internet technology as well as the electronic content the web-based learning has become the desirable medium in the field of education. In medical, dental and allied health science education, the conventional method involves the use of textbooks, lectures, and images. But trends suggest that a change is poised in this field. Objective: the systematic review aims to evaluate the literature of studies about the application of the e-Learning methods in radiology education at the undergraduate level in comparison to conventional teaching-learning methods. Material and Methods: prominent scientific databases were searched for literature related to the application of e-Learning in undergraduate radiology education. The search keywords used for the search were- E-learning, dental radiology, oral radiology, undergraduate. English language full text of eligible article was systematically reviewed. Results: seven full text articles were obtained after scrutiny of the available literature. Most of the research work was carried out in the past decade and dental schools in different parts of the world. Almost all the studies showed that e-learning was as either equally effective or more effective when compared to conventional teaching in dental radiology. Conclusion: e-learning could be a suitable alternative to conventional teaching-learning method with significant improvement in student attitude and knowledge however, the influence of e-learning in improving the practical or clinical skills of dental radiography is still debatable (AU)

Com o aumento da tecnologia da Internet, como também o conteúdo eletrônico da aprendizagem baseada na web, estes tornaram-se um meio desejável no campo da Educação. Em ciências médicas, odontológicas e afins, o método convencional envolve o uso de livros didáticos, palestras e imagens. Mas tendências sugerem que há uma mudança nesse campo. Objetivos: esta revisão sistemática visa avaliar literatura de estudos sobre a aplicação de métodos de e-Learning no ensino de radiologia no nível de graduação em comparação com os métodos convencional de ensino-aprendizagem. Material e Métodos: bases de dados científicas importantes foram pesquisadas sobre literatura relacionada à aplicação do e-Learning na graduação em radiologia. As palavraschave usadas para a pesquisa foram: E-learning, radiologia dentária, radiologia oral, graduação. O texto completo do artigo elegível em inglês foi sistematicamente revisado. Resultados: sete textos completos foram obtidos após análise minuciosa da literatura. A maior parte dos trabalhos de pesquisa foi realizada na década passada em escolas de odontologia em diferentes partes do mundo. Quase todos os estudos mostraram que o e-learning era igualmente eficaz ou mais eficaz quando comparado ao ensino convencional em radiologia dentária. Conclusão: o e-learning pode ser uma alternativa adequada ao ensino-aprendizagem convencional, com melhoria significativa nas atitudes e conhecimentos aluno. No entanto, a influência de e-learning para melhorar as habilidades práticas ou clínicas da radiolog ia dentária ainda é discutível(AU)

Antibiofilm efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles against endodontic-periodontal pathogens: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Endodontic-periodontal pathogens exist as biofilms which are difficult to eliminate. Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) emerged as newer antimicrobial agents with potential benefits. AIM: The aim of this study is to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC); evaluate the antibiofilm efficacy of fungal-derived AgNPs against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacillus pumilus, and Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MIC of AgNPs against test pathogens was determined using micro broth dilution method. Serial dilutions of AgNPs ranging from 80 to 1 µg/ml concentration were added to wells containing 10 µl of bacterial inoculum in culture media and control group without AgNPs. For biofilm models, 120 dentin blocks were prepared, sterilized, and contaminated for 2 weeks with (n = 40 each). Group 1: B. pumilus, Group 2: E. faecalis, and Group 3: P. gingivalis and each group is divided into four subgroups (n = 10 each) and treated with distilled water, AgNPs, 2% and 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX). Colonies counted after 24 h of incubation and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests. RESULTS: MIC for B. pumilus was determined as 20 µg/ml and 30 µg/ml for E. faecalis and P. gingivalis. AgNPs were effective as 2% CHX against all biofilms compared to control group. Post hoc Tukey test (P < 0.0001) shows no significant difference between groups. CONCLUSION: Fungal-derived AgNPs are effective against endo-perio pathogens.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles against Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm: An in vitro Study.

AIM: This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced using the fungi against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm model on root dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: AgNPs were biosynthesized using the fungi Fusarium semitectum isolated from healthy leaves of Withania somnifera. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AgNPs was determined by microbroth dilution method using series of dilutions. MIC dose was standardized to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy. For biofilm model, thirty root dentin blocks prepared using human extracted single-rooted teeth were inoculated with E. faecalis in Trypticase soy agar broth for 2 weeks with alternate day replenishment and randomly divided into three groups (n = 10 each) and treated as: Group I: Sterile distilled water, Group II: AgNPs, and Group III: 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Each dentin block was rinsed in saline, vortex shaken for 60 s, and serial decimal dilutions were prepared and plated on trypticase soy agar plates and incubated for 24 h followed by CFU colony counting and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference test. RESULTS: MIC of AgNPs for E. faecalis was determined as 30 mg/ml. No significant difference was seen between AgNPs and 2% CHX when compared to the control group with mean colony counts being 2.4, 2.5, and 6.77 CFU/ml (107), respectively (P < 0.0001), against E. faecalis biofilm. CONCLUSION: Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibit effective antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis biofilm on root dentin. Therefore, it can be employed as antimicrobial agent for root canal disinfection.

Evaluation of Antibacterial Efficacy of Fungal-Derived Silver Nanoparticles against Enterococcus faecalis.

BACKGROUND: The main objective of endodontic therapy is complete elimination and prevention of bacteria from the root canal system; however, it is difficult due to anatomical ramifications of root canal system and growing resistant microbes to available disinfectants. Therefore, to overcome this problem, newer antimicrobial agents have to be developed. AIMS: The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of fungal-derived biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Freshly prepared silver nanoparticles using the endophytic fungi Fusarium semitectum, characterized by different techniques were used to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy against E. faecalis by agar well diffusion method measuring the zone of inhibition using different concentrations of nanoparticles (AgNPs) (A [20 µl], B [40 µl], C [60 µl], D [80 µl], and E [100 µl]), F (0.2% chlorhexidine [CHX]), G (2% CHX), H (ampicillin), and I (distilled water) were used as control groups. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey multiple comparison test was done. RESULTS: AgNPs (100 ml) showed highest zone of inhibition 19.5 mm against E. faecalis. CHX (0.2%) 14.52 mm, CHX (2%) 20.02 mm, and ampicillin showed highest mean zone of inhibition 20.5 mm and distilled water showed no zone of inhibition. Results indicate no significant difference between E (100 µl), G (2% CHX), and H (ampicillin) (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibit efficient antibacterial activity against E. faecalis and therefore can be used as root canal irrigant or intracanal medicament for root canal disinfection.

Biosynthesis, Characterization and Antibacterial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Endophytic Fungi against P. gingivalis.

INTRODUCTION: Microbial resistance to existing antimicrobial agents in periodontal therapy is a growing problem. Therefore, there is a need for development of new antimicrobial agents. AIM: To biosynthesize and characterize Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) using endophytic fungi and to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy against P. gingivalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cut leaf segments of Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) were used to isolate the fungi. Fresh cultures of fungi were inoculated in Erlenmeyer flask of 100 ml Malt Glucose Yeast Peptone (MGYP) broth and incubated at 29°C for 72 hours for the biomass to grow. Biomass was filtered and cell free fungal filtrate was used further. Biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by visual observation, Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction Analysis (SAED) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Antibacterial efficacy was evaluated by agar diffusion method measuring the zone of inhibition. The study groups included different concentrations of AgNPs: A (20 µl), B (40 µl), C (60 µl), D (80 µl) and E (100 µl) of AgNPs, F (0.2% CHX), G (2% CHX), H (Ampicillin) and I (sterile distilled water). The data collected for inhibition zones were statistically analysed using One-way Anova followed by Tukey post-hoc multiple comparison tests. RESULTS: The fungi were identified as Fusarium semitectum. Characterization studies showed the colour change from colourless to reddish brown; U-V spectrum showed peak 420 nm, TEM revealed the particles spherical in shape and 10-20 nm in size. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of functional groups. AgNPs 80 µl and 100 µl showed mean zone of inhibition 17.33 and 18 mm against P. gingivalis. CHX (0.2%) 17.85 and CHX (2%) 19.97 mm, Ampicillin 20.5 mm and no zone for sterile distilled water. CONCLUSION: Biosynthesized AgNPs showed efficient antibacterial efficacy against P. gingivalis hence, creates a new horizon in periodontal therapy.

Evaluation of antibacterial efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles derived from fungi against endo-perio pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacillus pumilus, and Enterococcus faecalis.

BACKGROUND: Even after rapid progress in contemporary dental practice, we encounter the failures due to endodontic, periodontal, or combined lesions. Complex anatomy of tooth and resistant microbes demands the development of new treatment strategies. AIM: The aim of this study is to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using fungi and determine the antibacterial efficacy against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacillus pumilus, and Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fungi isolated from healthy leaves of Withania somnifera were used to biosynthesize AgNPs. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by different methods, and antibacterial efficacy was evaluated by agar well diffusion method measuring the zone of inhibition. Test microorganisms were divided as Group 1: B. pumilus 27142 (American Type Culture Collection [ATCC]), Group 2: E. faecalis 29212 (ATCC), and Group 3: P. gingivalis 33277 (ATCC). Agents used for antibacterial efficacy were grouped as: AgNPs: A (20 µl), B (40 µl), C (60 µl), D (80 µl), E (100 µl), F (0.2% chlorhexidine [CHX]), G (2% CHX), H (Ampicillin), and I (sterile distilled water). RESULTS: Characterization studies showed the color change from colorless to reddish brown color; ultraviolet spectrum showed peak at 420 nm, transmission electron microscope revealed the particles spherical in shape and 10-20 nm size. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed the presence of functional groups. Data collected for antibacterial efficacy were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's multiple shows no significant difference among three groups (P < 0.0001). AgNPs were as effective as CHX and positive control ampicillin. No zones were seen for I (distilled water). CONCLUSION: Biosynthesized AgNPs showed efficient antibacterial efficacy. Therefore, it creates a new horizon in the management of endodontic, periodontal, and combined lesions.

Evaluation of Enterococcus faecalis adhesion, penetration, and method to prevent the penetration of Enterococcus faecalis into root cementum: Confocal laser scanning microscope and scanning electron microscope analysis.

AIM: To ascertain the role of Enterococcus faecalis in persistent infection and a possible method to prevent the penetration of E. faecalis into root cementum. METHODOLOGY: One hundred and twenty human single-rooted extracted teeth divided into five groups. Group I (control): intact teeth, Group II: no apical treatment done, Group III divided into two subgroups. In Groups IIIa and IIIb, root apex treated with lactic acid of acidic and neutral pH, respectively. Group IV: apical root cementum exposed to lactic acid and roughened to mimic the apical resorption. Group V: apical treatment done same as Group IV and root-end filling done using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Apical one-third of all samples immersed in E. faecalis broth for 8 weeks followed by bone morphogenetic protein and obturation and again immersed into broth for 8 weeks. Teeth split into two halves and observed under confocal laser scanning microscope and scanning electron microscope, organism identified by culture and polymerase chain reaction techniques. RESULTS: Adhesion and penetration was observed in Group IIIa and Group IV. Only adhesion in Group II and IIIB and no adhesion and penetration in Group I and V. CONCLUSION: Adhesion and penetration of E. faecalis into root cementum providing a long-term nidus for subsequent infection are the possible reason for persistent infection and root-end filling with MTA prevents the adhesion and penetration.

Evaluation of the presence of Enterococcus Faecalis in root cementum: A confocal laser scanning microscope analysis.

AIM: The aim of this study is to address the cause of persistent infection of root cementum by Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sample of 60 human single-rooted teeth were divided into three groups. Group I (control group) had no access opening and one-third of the apical root cementum was sealed using varnish. Group II had no preparation of teeth samples. In group III, apical root cementum was exposed to organic acid and roughened using diamond point to mimic apical resorption. After access opening in groups II and III, all teeth samples were sterilized using gamma irradiation (25 kGy). E. faecalis broth was placed in the root canal and apical one-third of the tooth was immersed in the broth for 8 weeks with alternate day refreshment followed by biomechanical preparation, obturation and coronal seal. Apical one-third of all teeth samples were again immersed in the broth for 8 weeks with alternate day refreshment to mimic secondary infection. The samples were observed under a confocal microscope after splitting the teeth into two halves. RESULTS: E. faecalis penetrated 160 µm deep into the root cementum in group III samples and only showed adhesion in group II samples. CONCLUSION: Penetration and survival of E. faecalis deep inside the cementum in extreme conditions could be the reason for persistent infection.