Evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of medicated gutta percha

The purpose of this in-vitro study was evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of commercially available gutta percha formulations against acommon endodontic pathogen. Conventional, chlorhexidine (Roeko Activ) or calcium hydroxide (Hygenic's) impregnated gutta percha points were tested against Enterococcus faecalis. Roeko Activ Chlorhexidine, Hygenic's Calcium Hydroxide and conventional gutta percha points of the same dimensions were placed on the inoculated plates. The plates were incubated aerobically at 37°C. Growth inhibition zones on each plate were inspected after 3 days. Results showed that Roeko Activ Chlorhexidine Points inhibited the tested stain whereas Hygenic's Calcium Hydroxide or conventional gutta percha points did not. Based on the results of this study, it seems that Roeko Activ Chlorhexidine Points offer antimicrobial advantage over Hygenic's Calcium Hydroxide or conventional gutta percha points.