Development of Chlorhexidine Loaded Halloysite Nanotube Based Experimental Resin Composite with Enhanced Physico-Mechanical and Biological Properties for Dental Applications

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the effect of Chlorhexidine-loaded Halloysite nanotubes (HNT/CHX) fillers (diverse mass fractions from 1 to 10 wt.%) on physicochemical, morphological and biological properties of newly developed experimental dental resin composite, in order to compare with the properties of composites composed of conventional glass fillers. Methods: The dental resin composites were prepared by incorporating various proportions of HNT/CHX. Six different groups of specimens: control group and five groups composed of varied mass fractions of HNT/CHX (e.g., 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 wt.%) as fillers in each group were fabricated. Mechanical properties of the composites were monitored, using UTM. The degree of conversion of dental resin composites and their depth of cure were also evaluated. Antimicrobial properties of dental composites were studied in vitro by applying agar diffusion test on strain Streptococcus mutans and cytotoxicity were studied using NIH-3T3 cell line. Results: The incorporation of varied mass fractions (1.0 to 5.0 wt.%) of HNT/CHX in dental resins composites enhanced mechanical properties considerably with significant antibacterial activity. The slight decrease in curing depth and degree of conversion values of composites indicates its durability. No cytotoxicity was noticed on NIH-3T3 cell lines. Significance: Consistent distribution of HNT/CHX as a filler into dental composites could substantially improve not only mechanical properties but also biological properties of dental composites.