Effect of the cavity disinfectant containing chitosan on dentin bonding strength after radiotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the bond strength of teeth treated with radiotherapy with two cavity disinfectants (Chlorhexidine gluconate, a chitosan-containing agent). Methodology: Eighteen newly extracted, non-carious human third molar teeth were used. The teeth were randomly divided into two main groups, treated and/or non-treated with radiotherapy, then separated into three subgroups for disinfectant agent application (CHX, chitosan, control). A total dose of 70.2 Gy was given over 39 days using a linear radiation accelerator for radiotherapy. After applying the cavity disinfectant, the teeth were restored with composite resin to obtain the stick. All bond strength values from sticks were measured using a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed with ANOVA and Chi-square test at a p < 0.05. Results: Among all groups, Group CH, with no radiotherapy application and containing a chitosan-disinfectant agent, showed the highest bond strength (44.7 ± 8.2). In contrast, Group RC with radiotherapy and disinfectant-free showed the lowest bond strength value (29.1 ± 3.5). The highest bond strength values were obtained after applying the chitosan-containing agent in all groups. Conclusions: Radiotherapy application had a negative effect, while the use of disinfectant agents had a positive effect on the bond strength.