Comprehensive evaluation of antibacterial activity, pH stability, and surface characterization of a mussel-inspired polymer for root perforation repair.

Root perforation is a serious complication in endodontic therapy that can adversely affect treatment outcomes due to persistent microbial contamination and the limitations of currently available repair materials. Although mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is widely used, its handling characteristics, prolonged setting time, and variable antibacterial activity necessitate the development of alternative materials. This study evaluated a novel bio-inspired composite combining polydopamine, a mussel-derived adhesive polymer, with bioactive glass, designed to enhance antibacterial performance, surface characteristics, and pH behaviour relevant to root perforation repair. It was hypothesized that the experimental composite would exhibit improved antibacterial efficacy and a favourable surface nanoarchitecture compared with MTA, while maintaining physiologically relevant alkalinity. Antibacterial activity was assessed using agar diffusion against Porphyromonas endodontalis and Enterococcus faecalis, pH was measured at 24 h and 7 days, and surface characteristics were analysed using atomic force microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Antibacterial outcomes were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test, while pH values were analysed using independent t-tests. The experimental material demonstrated significantly greater antibacterial activity against Porphyromonas species (P < 0.05), with no significant difference against E. faecalis. A lower initial pH with gradual alkalinization and a smoother surface profile were observed. These findings suggest that the polydopamine-bioactive glass composite shows promise as an experimental material for root perforation repair, warranting further biological and translational investigation.