Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of glass ionomer cement added with propolis, chitosan, and chlorhexidine against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus: An in vitro study.

Context: Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is known for its antimicrobial activity due to its low pH and fluoride release. The fluoride released has an inhibitory effect on a finite number of bacteria which leads to the risk of recurrent caries. Additives such as chlorhexidine (CHX) and triclosan have been tried to maximize the antibacterial activity of GIC. Although CHX is known for its impressive antimicrobial action, it has adverse after effects which include alteration of commensal oral flora, staining of teeth, etc., Hence, there is a need for a material with improved antimicrobial efficacy with nominal side effects. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of conventional GIC added with Propolis, Chitosan (CH), and CHX against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Materials and Methods: Eighty discs of size 10 × 2 mm are prepared with Conventional GIC and GIC added with Propolis, CH and CHX (n = 10) and tested against S. mutans and L. acidophilus using the agar diffusion assay. Zones of inhibition are measured for day 1, 7, and 14, and the data were tabulated and analyzed. Statistical Analysis: One-way ANOVA test for intragroup and Tukey's post hoc test for intergroup comparison. Results: The mean value of zone of inhibition (in mm) against S. mutans on day 14 for Group I, II, III, and IV are 11.70 ± 1.49, 16.50 ± 2.23, 19.30 ± 2.87, and 15.60 ± 2.76, respectively. For L. acidophilus, the mean value of the zone of inhibition (in mm) on day 14 are 8.40 ± 0.97, 9.70 ± 0.68, 16.20 ± 2.04, and 12.50 ± 0.97 for Group I, II, III, and IV, respectively. Conclusion: Higher antimicrobial activity was shown by GIC with CHX against both strains. GIC with Propolis and GIC with CH were effective in inhibiting S. mutans and L. acidophilus, respectively.