PLGA submicron particles containing chlorhexidine, calcium and phosphorus inhibit Enterococcus faecalis infection and improve the microhardness of dentin.

Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), a Gram-positive facultative anaerobe, is reported to take responsibility for a large portion of refractory root canal infections and root canal re-infections of human teeth. Chlorhexidine is a strong bactericide against E. faecalis but cannot infiltrate into dentinal tubules. On the other hand, a common negative effect of root canal medicaments is the decrease of dentin microhardness. In this study, poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolide) (PLGA) submicron particles were applied as delivery carriers to load and release the chlorhexidine as well as calcium and phosphorus. The release profiles, antibacterial ability against E. faecalis, infiltration ability into dentinal tubules, biocompatibility and effects on dentin microhardness of these particles were investigated. Results revealed that encapsulated chemicals could be released in a sustained manner from the particles. The particles also exhibited excellent biocompatibility on MC3T3-E1 cells and significant antimicrobial property against E. faecalis. On dentin slices, the particles could be driven into dentinal tubules by ultrasonic activiation and inhibit E. faecalis colonization. Besides, dentin slices medicated with the particles displayed an increase in microhardness. In conclusion, PLGA submicron particles carrying chlorhexidine, calcium and phosphorus could be developed into a new intra-canal disinfectant for dental treatments.