Evaluation of self-disinfection alginate impression material using silver nanoparticles and povidone-iodine

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and physical properties of two experimental self-disinfecting alginate preparations. METHODS: The alginate molds were divided into three groups: the control one without any additives, and the two others contained either povidone-iodine (PV-I) or silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Samples from each group were assessed for their antimicrobial activity by the disc diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Candida albicans (yeast). For physical properties analysis, each group was divided into six samples. Each was mixed according to its group specification and ISO 1563:1990, for surface details reproduction and elastic recovery, respectively. RESULTS: Results revealed that the experimental alginate possessed a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against all tested microorganisms. There was no statistically significant difference (P<0.05) in elastic recovery values between groups. For surface details reproduction, all samples completely reproduced the 50 μm line. CONCLUSION: This study concluded that both PV-I and AgNPs could be used efficiently for the sanitization of alginate molds without any adverse effects on details accuracy or elastic recovery of the impression material. Although both were effective as disinfectants agents, PV-I is recommended as a cheaper and more easily accessible material.