Development and Characterization of a Novel Chitosan-Based Dental Composite for Restorative Applications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63682/jns.v14i33S.10017Keywords:
Chitosan, Dental Composite, Restorative Dentistry, Mechanical Properties, Antibacterial ActivityAbstract
Background: Dental composites have become a common treatment in restorative procedures, although traditional forms of dental composites do not have any antibacterial properties, which is the cause of secondary caries. Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide that has biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties, and thus makes it a promising additive in restorative composites.
Objective: To formulate and describe a new dental composite based on chitosan and to assess the mechanical and antimicrobial properties.
Methods: This is an in vitro experimental study that was carried out for six months. Control composite and chitosan-incorporated composite (1%, 3%, 5%) specimens were made as per the ISO standards. Analysis of data was done using SPSS v26; the level of significance was taken at p ≤ 0.05.
Discussion: The flexural strength was reduced to 100.6 ± 5.5 MPa (5% chitosan) as compared to the control, which was 110.5 ± 5.2 MPa. Reductions in compressive strength and hardness were also modest. The chitosan content was found to greatly enhance antibacterial activity with an inhibition zone of 4.2 ± 0.8 mm (1%), 6.8 ±0.9 mm (3%), and 9.1 ±1.0 mm (5%), whereas no activity was observed in controls.
Conclusion: Chitosan-based dental composites have a stronger antibacterial activity and yet can maintain a satisfactory mechanical performance in the clinical environment, which means that they can be used as bioactive restorative materials.
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