Oxidative stress induced antimicrobial efficacy of chitosan and silver nanoparticles coated Gutta-percha for endodontic applications

Abstract Root canal treatment is the most effective treatment for irreversible pulpal damage. However, it suffers the risk of failure due to micro-leakage at the Gutta-percha-sealer-tooth interface. Concerning the issue, it is important to enhance the antimicrobial properties of Gutta-percha. The current study describes a novel coating of the Gutta-percha with chitosan and silver nanoparticles to increase their antimicrobial efficacy. They were coated with chitosan and silver nanoparticles with concentrations of 1%, 2% using chemical methodology. Coated Gutta-percha were evaluated for their antimicrobial efficacy against E. faecalis, which is frequently isolated microorganism in failed endodontic cases using standard microbiological methods like growth curve analysis. Detailed analysis of the antimicrobial activity was performed by live-dead analysis with the help of flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy. Although, the experimental analysis showed concentration-dependent antibacterial activity by both chitosan and silver NP coated Gutta-percha, the silver NP coating exhibited higher antibacterial activity compared to the Gutta percha coated with chitosan nanoparticles. Mechanistic evaluation unveiled the cause of antibacterial activates due to action of induced oxidative stress and membrane damage to the bacteria by coated nanoparticles. The information will be useful for the endodontist to have an alternative filling material with higher antibacterial potency for higher success rate of root canal therapies in clinical procedures.