Abstract
BACKGROUND: In addition to the capacity for gradual and sustained fluoride release over extended durations, which is crucial for remineralization processes and antibacterial properties, glass-ionomer cements (GICs) may serve as templates for releasing additional active antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial activity of conventional GICs-ChemFlex and Fuji IX-with and without the addition of antimicrobial compounds benzalkonium chloride and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), against cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus casei, and Actinomyces viscosus across different time intervals. METHODS: Specimens measuring 4×6 mm were prepared from the cements with and without the incorporation of antibacterial agents. The inhibitory zones were assessed after 48 hours, as well as after 2, 7, and 21 days of incubation. The agar diffusion method was employed to determine the zones of inhibition. RESULTS: The statistical analysis of the antimicrobial effects between the two compounds indicated no significant differences in the control group. Statistically significant differences were noted in the experimental group, except on the 21st day for S. mutans across all concentrations, and the 48th hour and 7th day for A. viscosus in 3% antimicrobial agents. CONCLUSION: The incorporation of antimicrobial agents into conventional glass-ionomers demonstrated an inhibitory effect on all examined cariogenic bacteria. This effect was more significant at higher concentrations. Over time, the suppressive effect diminished; however, it remained significantly strong. Glass-ionomers lacking antimicrobial agents demonstrated a restricted but noticeable antibacterial efficacy.