Antibacterial activity of a glass ionomer containing silver nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis

Aim: Nano-sized metal particles exhibit special biological, chemical, and physical properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of incorporating silver nanoparticles into a resin-modified glass ionomer (GI) on its antimicrobial property. Materials and Methods: Antibacterial action of GI samples containing 0, 40, 80 ppm silver nanoparticles against standard strains of Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus mutans were assessed by agar diffusion and direct contact tests. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and Duncan test (P < 0.05). Results: Agar diffusion test showed no bacterial inhibition zone, but direct contact test exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against S. sanguinis and S. mutans in resin containing 80 ppm of nanosilver. Conclusion: Incorporation of a certain amount of silver nanoparticles into GI can increase its antimicrobial activity compared to the original material.