Antimicrobial Activity of Calcium Nanoparticles in Toothpaste Against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis - An In vitro study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52783/jns.v14.1817Keywords:
Calcium Nanoparticles, Antimicrobial Agents, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalisAbstract
Background: Dental caries and endodontic infections caused by Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis are major oral health concerns. With rising antibiotic resistance, alternative antimicrobial strategies are needed. Calcium nanoparticles (CaNPs) have shown promising antibacterial properties, particularly in toothpaste formulations.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of calcium nanoparticle-enriched toothpaste against S. mutans and E. faecalis and compare it with conventional fluoride toothpaste.
Materials and Methods: Calcium oxide (CaO) nanoparticles were synthesized using microwave irradiation and incorporated into fluoride toothpaste at varying concentrations (0%, 1%, 2%, and 5%). Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method, measuring inhibition zones. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined, and statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and independent t-tests.
Results: The results demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in antimicrobial activity against S. mutans with calcium nanoparticle-enriched toothpaste. However, E. faecalis exhibited greater resistance, with the control fluoride toothpaste showing slightly higher inhibition. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between test groups and controls (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Calcium nanoparticle-infused toothpaste showed enhanced antimicrobial activity against S. mutans, suggesting its potential role in caries prevention. However, its efficacy against E. faecalis was lower than that of conventional fluoride toothpaste. Future studies should focus on optimizing nanoparticle dispersion, conducting in vivo research, and exploring synergistic formulations to improve efficacy against resistant oral pathogens.
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