Restor Dent Endod.  2021 Aug;46(3):e38. 10.5395/rde.2021.46.e38.

Silver nanoparticles in endodontics: recent developments and applications

• Oncu A
• Huang Y
• Amasya G
• Sevimay FS
• Orhan K
• Celikten B

• KMID: 2548082
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5395/rde.2021.46.e38

Abstract

The elimination of endodontic biofilms and the maintenance of a leak-proof canal filling are key aspects of successful root canal treatment. Several materials have been introduced to treat endodontic disease, although treatment success is limited by the features of the biomaterials used. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been increasingly considered in dental applications, especially endodontics, due to their high antimicrobial activity. For the present study, an electronic search was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Google Scholar, and EMBASE. This review provides insights into the unique characteristics of AgNPs, including their chemical, physical, and antimicrobial properties; limitations; and potential uses. Various studies involving different application methods of AgNPs were carefully examined. Based on previous clinical studies, the synthesis, means of obtaining, usage conditions, and potential cytotoxicity of AgNPs were evaluated. The findings indicate that AgNPs are effective antimicrobial agents for the elimination of endodontic biofilms.

Keyword

Antimicrobial agents; Endodontic biofilm; Silver nanoparticles

Figure

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  Figure 1 Metallic nanoparticles that can be used for endodontic disinfection.

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  Figure 2 Cycle of biofilm formation.

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  Figure 3 Structural elements of the exopolymeric matrix.

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  Figure 4 Possible antibacterial mechanisms of AgNPs. AgNPs can: 1) bind to the cell membrane, membrane proteins, and DNA bases, leading to the disruption of normal function; 2) release silver ions, affecting the membrane, DNA, and proteins; and 3) generate ROS, which may also affect DNA, the cell membrane, and membrane proteins.AgNP, silver nanoparticle; ROS, reactive oxidative species.

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