Evaluation of Chitosan Nanoparticle - Enriched Toothpaste for Antimicrobial Activity Against Oral Pathogens: S. mutans and E. faecalis.
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Abstract
Background: Chitosan, derived from crustacean shells, is a biopolymer with strong antimicrobial properties. Chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) enhance its efficacy due to increased surface area and bioactivity, making them a promising addition to oral care products. Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis are significant contributors to dental caries and endodontic infections, respectively. Integrating CNPs into toothpaste formulations has demonstrated potential in reducing bacterial viability and biofilm formation.
Aim: To evaluate the antimicrobial activity of chitosan nanoparticle-enriched toothpaste against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis at different concentrations and time intervals.
Materials and Methods: Green-synthesized CNPs were incorporated into fluoride toothpaste at a 2% w/w concentration. Antimicrobial efficacy was tested using time-kill curve assays and agar well diffusion techniques. Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis were treated with toothpaste formulations containing CNPs at concentrations of 25 µg/mL, 50 µg/mL, and 100 µg/mL over 1 to 4 hours. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and effect size metrics.
Results: The CNP-enriched toothpaste demonstrated concentration- and time-dependent antimicrobial activity. A significant reduction in Streptococcus mutans growth was observed, with the highest activity at 100 µg/mL (F = 38.938, p < 0.001, Eta-squared = 0.726). However, minimal inhibition was seen against Enterococcus faecalis, with no significant differences between concentrations (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Chitosan nanoparticle-enriched toothpaste shows promise in reducing Streptococcus mutans, a key dental caries pathogen, but is less effective against Enterococcus faecalis. Further optimization of formulation and testing conditions is required to enhance its antimicrobial spectrum and clinical efficacy.