Evaluating the antimicrobial effect, compressive strength and fluoride release of glass ionomer cement modified with Triphala

The enhancement of the antibacterial properties of glass ionomer cement has gained substantial importance in contemporary restorative dentistry, as microbial biofilms are the primary cause of secondary caries and restoration failure. Recent advances focus on modifying glass ionomer cement by incorporating antimicrobial agents to significantly improve its antibacterial activity. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial effect, compressive strength, and fluoride release of glass ionomer cement modified with Triphala. This in vitro study included a total of 78 glass ionomer specimens, which were allocated into three primary testing categories: antibacterial activity, compressive strength, and fluoride release. Specifically, (n = 24) specimens were designated for the antibacterial test, (n = 33) specimens for evaluating compressive strength, and (n = 21) specimens for assessing fluoride release. Each testing category was further subdivided into three groups based on the incorporation of Triphala into the glass ionomer cement. Group A served as the control, consisting of glass ionomer without Triphala, Group B included glass ionomer specimens modified with 1.25%wt Triphala, and Group C comprised glass ionomer specimens modified with 3%wt Triphala. There was a significant difference among the three groups in terms of antibacterial activity and fluoride release tests, with Group C exhibiting the highest values in both tests. However, no significant difference was reported between the mean compressive strength of the control group and the experimental groups. Results revealed that Triphala enhances the antibacterial and fluoride-releasing abilities without compromising the compressive strength of GIC.