RESUMO
Background Seagrass is rich in antioxidants, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the oral cavity. Free radicals can contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, and various oral health issues. Incorporating seagrass extract into a hydrogel can enhance its antioxidant capacity, providing a protective effect for oral tissues. The hydrogel, composed of a biocompatible base, ensures that the material is well-tolerated by oral tissue. This is crucial for any dental application to avoid adverse reactions. Aim This work aimed to develop an antioxidant hydrogel that incorporates seagrass extract, with a specific emphasis on its possible use in dentistry. Methods A seagrass sample was collected, and its bioactive compounds were extracted through the utilization of methanol, and subsequent filtration was done. The resulting seagrass filtrate was then integrated into a hydrogel, which was synthesized using polyacrylamide and sodium alginate. Antioxidant hydrogel underwent testing for antioxidant activity through both the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay and the 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay. Besides, the hydrogel functional groups were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, while its crystalline structure was examined using X-ray diffraction analysis. Conclusion Seagrass extract provides inherent antioxidant properties, and incorporating this bioactive extract into the hydrogel imparts antioxidant features. The hydrogel's controlled-release property ensures both safety and efficiency. Antioxidant hydrogel for dental applications holds the potential to improve oral health.
