Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of triclosan-incorporated root canal filling materials for primary teeth against enterococcus faecalis

Aim and objective: To compare the antibacterial activity of root canal filling materials namely zinc oxide eugenol and Endoflas FS with or without the incorporation of Triclosan. Materials and methods: The study consisted of four groups, with 15 samples in each group: group I (zinc oxide eugenol paste), group Ia (zinc oxide eugenol paste + 2.5% Triclosan), group II (Endoflas FS), and group IIa (Endoflas FS + 2.5% Triclosan). A double layer agar well diffusion test was used to evaluate the antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis. The zones of microbial inhibition were measured at the end of 24 hours, 6th day, and 29th day. Results: On intergroup comparison, the difference in the antibacterial activity was found to be highly significant (p < 0.001). Among the various groups evaluated, group IIa showed the highest antibacterial activity against E. faecalis followed by group II, group Ia, and the least activity being shown by group I throughout the experimental periods. On intragroup comparison at different time intervals, a maximum zone of inhibition was seen at 24 hours with a p value < 0.05 in all the tested groups. Conclusion: Incorporation of 2.5% triclosan into zinc oxide eugenol and Endoflas FS enhanced the antimicrobial activity of both the root canal filling materials with lasting antimicrobial activity even at the end of the 29th day. Clinical significance: The antimicrobial efficacy of a root canal filling material is an ideal requirement, which will help in combating the residual microflora present in the root canal system following chemomechanical preparation. The addition of an antimicrobial agent such as triclosan to the root canal filling materials, enhances their antimicrobial efficacy significantly and thus, rendering the pulpectomy-treated tooth with a better prognosis.