Evaluation of Stability and Antibacterial Activity of Various Concentrations of Triple Antibiotic Paste against Enterococcus faecalis: An in vitro Study

Abstract

Aim:The aim of this study is to evaluate the stability and antibacterial effect of various concentrations of triple antibiotic paste (TAP) against Enterococcus faecalis with antibiotic susceptibility testing. Materials and methods:The stability and antibacterial effect of TAP was tested with antibiotic susceptibility test against E. faecalis by using Agar disk diffusion method over a period of 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days. The samples were divided into three groups: group I (1% TAP), group II (2% TAP), group III (3% TAP), and group IV (chlorhexidine as control). The zones of inhibition were measured after 24 hours and were recorded in millimeters and the same procedure was repeated again after 3, 7, 14, and 21 days.Results: Higher concentration of 3% TAP showed superior antibacterial effect against E. faecalis compared with 1% TAP, 2% TAP, and control group (chlorhexidine). The antibacterial efficacy increased more rapidly after 21 days when compared with 24 hours, 3 days, and 7 days. Conclusion:Under specified limitations of this in vitro study, higher concentration of TAP can be used as an effective intracanal medicament against E. faecalis. It is clearly experimented that longer duration of application of intracanal medicament increases its antibacterial effect against E. faecalis.Clinical significance: Triple antibiotic paste can be prepared, stabilized, and used for a period of 21 days.