Investigation of the hydration process and biological activity of a novel nanosilver incorporated dicalcium silicate based retrograde filling material

Abstract

Background Although several materials have been used for retrograde filling following apical surgeries, there is no consensus on a single best material. Tricalcium silicate-based types of cement have been developed as root-end filling materials mainly due to tricalcium silicate’s hydraulic properties. However, its unfavorable setting characteristics and minimal antimicrobial properties have necessitated the introduction of new additives into the existing commercially available materials. To design an affordable product based on a dicalcium silicate with a shorter set time, minimal cytotoxic complications, and enhanced antibacterial activity, we developed a new endodontic cement from pure raw materials, intending to satisfy the prerequisites of ideal retrograde material. Methods The composition of the experimental calcium silicate-based cement included the addition of calcium chloride and silver nanoparticles in varying concentrations. Structural characterization was carried out using energy dispersive analysis by X-rays using scanning electron microscope (EDAX SEM) and hydration characteristics were performed using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The experimental material was further evaluated for biocompatibility using MTT ([3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide)assay and antibacterial activity was evaluated using an agar diffusion test against Enterococcus faecalis. Results The structural characterization and hydration characteristics revealed that the experimental cement was dicalcium silicate based with favorable biocompatibility and enhanced antibacterial activity. Tricalcium silicate based mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) also had favourable biocompatibility, however, its antibacterial activity was significantly decreased when compared to the novel cement. Conclusion All hydraulic cements that are available in the dental market are predominantly tricalcium silicate-based materials. There has been no evidence in the literature to date wherein it has been explored whether a dicalcium silicate-based hydraulic cement can solely be used in root-end cavities. The findings of the study revealed a dicalcium silicate based retrograde filling material with favourable biocompatibility exhibited immediately as well as in the set samples. Incorporation of silver nanoparticles boosted the antibacterial activity when compared to that of ProRoot MTA. This material could potentially reinstate the usual hype created with tricalcium silicate types of cement since dicalcium silicate cements also exhibit similar properties.

Mitigation Measures of Swelling Characteristics in Alkali-Contaminated Red Earth using Fly Ash and GGBS Blends

“…The formation of C-S-H gel from hydrated dicalcium silicate governs the engineering characteristics of cement-based materials [85]. Due to their hydraulic properties, calcium silicate compounds rapidly develop strength upon hydration [81]. Dicalcium silicate is utilized in diverse technical applications, encompassing refractory materials, coatings, cement, and other industrial sectors [79].…”

“…Dicalcium silicate is utilized in diverse technical applications, encompassing refractory materials, coatings, cement, and other industrial sectors [79]. It has cementitious properties [80] and can be used in the manufacturing of dental filling materials [81], [86] and bone replacements [128]. Dicalcium silicate [Ca2SiO4 / C2S] served as a reinforcing agent to enhance the load-bearing capacity of specific alloys like Mg-AZ91D.…”