Comparative Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of 2% Chlorhexidine and 10% Dimethyl Sulfoxide at the Resin-Tooth Bond Interface: An In Vitro Study

Authors

• Kashmiri Chowdhury, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Saveetha University, ChennaiFollow
• Delphine Priscilla Antony Dr, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Saveetha University, ChennaiFollow
• Praveen kumar Elango Dr, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, CanadaFollow
• Amee Sanghavi Dr, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, CanadaFollow

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of chlorhexidine (CHX) versus dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in preventing Streptococcus mutans adhesion at the resin-tooth bond interface.

Materials and Methods: Fifteen extracted molars were sectioned and assigned to three treatment groups: 2% CHX, 10% DMSO, and saline (control). Dentin surfaces were treated per group, bonded using a two-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system, and restored with composite resin. S. mutans was applied to assess bacterial adherence. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy was used to quantify microbial cell counts. Statistical significance was evaluated via one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05).

Results: The control group demonstrated dense biofilm formation and high S. mutans adhesion. Both CHX and DMSO treatments significantly reduced microbial adherence; the CHX group exhibited superior antimicrobial performance compared to DMSO.

Conclusion: Both chlorhexidine and DMSO effectively reduce S. mutans adhesion at the resin-tooth interface, with chlorhexidine demonstrating greater efficacy.

Recommended Citation

Chowdhury, Kashmiri; Antony, Delphine Priscilla Dr; Elango, Praveen kumar Dr; and Sanghavi, Amee Dr (2026) "Comparative Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of 2% Chlorhexidine and 10% Dimethyl Sulfoxide at the Resin-Tooth Bond Interface: An In Vitro Study," International Arab Journal of Dentistry: Vol. 17: Iss. 2, Article 3.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65314/2218-0885.1844
Available at: https://e-journals.usj.edu.lb/iajd/vol17/iss2/3