Comparative evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of an alkasite restorative material with glass ionomer and resin-modified glass ionomer cement

Cention N is an alkasite restorative material, containing alkaline fillers. It is assumed that Cention N can neutralize an acidic pH by releasing fluoride, calcium, and hydroxyl ions. This study aimed to compare the antibacterial activity of Cention N with conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC).

Twenty experimental specimens were prepared from each of the Fuji IX (GIC), Fuji II LC (RMGIC), and Cention N (alkasite) using a cylindrical-shaped mold. The specimens were placed in agar plates at 37°C and inoculated with S. mutans (ATCC 25175). After 48 hours, the diameter of growth inhibition zones was recorded for each group at different time intervals including 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test with a confidence level of 0.05.

Cention N exhibited significantly higher antimicrobial activity against S. mutans at 3, 6, 24, and 48 h as compared to Fuji IX and Fuji II LC (P<0.05).

Cention N could be considered as a suitable alternative for glass ionomers and resin-modified glass ionomers concerning its caries-preventive effects.