Antibacterial efficacy of calcium hydroxide, polyantibiotic paste, and Laccifer lacca combinations: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND

Persistent Enterococcus faecalis infections compromise root canal therapy, with conventional medicaments like calcium hydroxide showing limited efficacy due to bacterial resistance. Novel combinations may improve disinfection outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the antibacterial efficacy of calcium hydroxide with Laccifer lacca, calcium hydroxide alone, and a polyantibiotic paste (Neosporin-H) against E. faecalis.

METHODS

Twenty-eight extracted mandibular premolars were prepared and inoculated with E. faecalis for 21 days. Specimens were divided into four groups: calcium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide + Laccifer lacca (6:4 ratio), Neosporin-H, and untreated controls. After 7 days of medicament placement, dentin scrapings were cultured to assess colony-forming units (CFUs). Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

CFUs were highest in controls (318.00), reduced with calcium hydroxide (204.57), and further lowered by Neosporin-H (143.00). The calcium hydroxide + Laccifer lacca group showed the greatest reduction (7.71 CFUs; F = 49.64, P = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Laccifer lacca significantly enhances calcium hydroxide's antibacterial activity, offering a promising alternative intracanal medicament for resistant E. faecalis infections.