Evaluations of high-viscosity glass-ionomer cement modified by eucalyptus extract-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles: in vitro study

Glass-ionomer cements offer unique qualities, including bulk insertion, chemical adhesion to tooth tissues, fluoride release, as well as recharge. This study aimed to assess the effect of addition of eucalyptus extract-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (EE@MSNs) to high-viscosity glass-ionomer cement HVGIC on its mechanical properties, antimicrobial activity, and fluoride release. EE@MSNs were prepared and characterized. Then, they were added to HVGIC Fuji IX at weight percentages of 1%, 3%, and 5% to create three experimental groups which were compared with the unmodified control group. Compressive strength, Vickers microhardness, and antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans were evaluated. Fluoride release was assessed after 24 h and 7 days. HVGIC modified by 1% and 3% EE@MSNs recorded significant improvement in compressive strength and Vickers microhardness compared to control groups. While higher ratio 5% showed decline in the mechanical properties. Experimental groups recorded significant increase in antibacterial activity and fluoride release when compared to control group and this increase was proportional to EE@MSNs percentage. Addition of 1 and 3 wt.% EE@MSNs could be considered a promising approach to modify properties of HVGICs.