Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Calcium Hydroxide along with Proton Pump Inhibitor against Enterococcus Faecalis

Strategies and mechanisms targeting Enterococcus faecalis biofilms associated with endodontic infections: a comprehensive review

Enterococcus faecalis is one of the main microorganisms that infects root canals, ranking among the most prevalent microorganisms associated with endodontic treatment failure. Given its pervasive presence in persistent endodontic infections, the successful elimination of Enterococcus faecalis is crucial for effective endodontic treatment and retreatment. Furthermore, Enterococcus faecalis can form biofilms - defense structures that microbes use to fight environmental threats. These biofilms confer resistance against host immune system attacks and antibiotic interventions. Consequently, the presence of biofilms poses a significant challenge in the complete eradication of Enterococcus faecalis and its associated disease. In response, numerous scholars have discovered promising outcomes in addressing Enterococcus faecalis biofilms within root canals and undertaken endeavors to explore more efficacious approaches in combating these biofilms. This study provides a comprehensive review of strategies and mechanisms for the removal of Enterococcus faecalis biofilms.

New and Efficient Bioactive Glass Compositions for Controlling Endodontic Pathogens

Endodontic treatment aims to conserve teeth through removing infected tissue, disinfecting, and filling/sealing the root canal. One of the most important treatment steps is the removal of microorganisms to avoid reinfection and consequent tooth loss. Due to increased resistance to intracanal medications, new alternative procedures are needed. Thus, an intracanal medication is suggested using three bioactive glass (BG) compositions (BG1, BG2, and BG3) produced by the sol–gel method, with different molar contents of bactericidal oxides. The BGs were morphologically and physically characterized. Their ability to inhibit the growth of two oral pathogens responsible for the failure of endodontic treatments (E. faecalis and C. albicans) was also studied. The results suggest that BG2 and BG3 can inhibit the growth of E. faecalis after 48 h of incubation, and all BG samples have a significant effect on C. albicans survival.