Antimicrobial Efficacy of Carbonated Hydroxyapatite Against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans: An In Vitro Study

Background: Dental caries commonly lead to pulp infection, necessitating vital pulp therapy (VPT) to protect the health of the pulp tissue. Effective pulp-capping materials, including those with antimicrobial properties, are crucial for successful VPT. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA), a novel pulp-capping material, compared to frequently used materials, against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. Methods: CHA was synthesized at three concentrations (0.05 M, 0.1 M, and 0.5 M) and compared with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated using the agar diffusion method. Zones of inhibition were evaluated after 24 hours of incubation. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc tests were used for the statistical analysis. Results: All materials exhibited antimicrobial activity against the tested microorganisms, with CHA at 0.1 M concentration demonstrating the highest efficacy against E. faecalis and C. albicans. MTA and CHA at 0.5 M concentrations showed strong activity against S. mutans. According to statistical analysis, significant differences were found in antibacterial activity among the tested materials (P<0.0001). Conclusion: CHA, particularly at 0.1 M concentration, demonstrated significant antimicrobial efficacy against S. mutans, E. faecalis, and C. albicans, suggesting its potential as a pulp-capping agent. Further research is warranted to explore its clinical applicability in VPT.