Abstract
The key characteristics of mesoporous hydroxyapatite, such as high porosity and expansive surface area, along with its biocompatibility with dental tissues and potential as a delivery vehicle for active ingredients, have recently garnered significant research focus. In the present study, mesoporous hydroxyapatite was synthesized using a precipitation technique and was subsequently characterized via X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, dynamic light scattering, field emission scanning electron microscopy and N(2) adsorption-desorption isotherms. The results revealed that the synthesized mesopore particles exhibited significant adsorption potential, and were thereby considered a carrier of thymol, an effective antibacterial on oral pathogens. Specifically, mesoporous hydroxyapatite's surface area and pore volume were approximately 2.66-fold and 1.95-fold higher than hydroxyapatite's. A statistically significant divergence in the release profiles of thymol from thymol-loaded mesoporous hydroxyapatite and thymol-loaded hydroxyapatite was noted, as indicated by the similarity factor (f(2) < 50). Evaluation of organoleptic parameters (taste, odor, smoothness, appearance) showed that thymol-loaded mesoporous hydroxyapatite toothpaste had superior organoleptic attributes compared to thymol-loaded hydroxyapatite toothpaste. However, both formulations were acceptable regarding pH and stability and were desirable regarding abrasiveness with no significant difference compared to the standard formulation (p > 0.05). Overall, the findings demonstrate the suitability of mesoporous hydroxyapatite as an abrasive material for developing hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste formulations.