Antimicrobial Efficacy of a Novel Obturating Material with and without Iodoform: A Microbiological In Vitro Study

Aim: To compare and evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of the novel obturating material with the augmentation of iodoform. Materials and methods:The novel obturating material with and without iodoform was loaded at 100 µL in Mueller-Hilton agar (MHA) plates against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Escherichia faecalis (E.faecalis) and was left undisturbed for 24 hours.After 24 hours, the inhibition zone was measured in millimeters using a vernier caliper.Results: The obturating material with iodoform produced a mean inhibition zone of 16.40 mm against S. mutans and 10.60 mm against E. faecalis, whereas the obturating material without iodoform produced a mean inhibition zone of 17.80 mm against S. mutans and 11.00 mm against E. faecalis.It was observed that there was no statistically significant difference found in the zone of inhibition when iodoform was added to the novel obturating material against both S. mutans and E. faecalis.Conclusion: Due to the undesirable effects of iodoform on primary teeth, a novel obturating material should be developed without the addition of this component and, at the same time, provide maximum antimicrobial effect.Clinical significance: Selecting the proper obturating material with the right choice of composition is crucial for maximizing the benefits for pediatric patients.An obturating material without iodoform but with the incorporation of other antimicrobial components can enhance the quality of obturation and the success rate of pulpectomy in children.