In vitro antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide mixed with different vehicles against Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans

Objective. The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide (CH) in combination with glycerin, chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), cetrimide, or distilled water against Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans. Study design. Standard holes in the cultivated agar plates were filled with one of the CH preparations and control agents. The zones of microbial inhibition were measured after incubation period. Results. The CH preparations with glycerin and CHX demonstrated more antifungal activity than CH preparations with cetrimide and distilled water. The CH-glycerin preparations had no effect against E. faecalis, and CH-CHX preparation was the most effective medication. Conclusion. Antimicrobial activity of CH may change with the type of the vehicle and against different microorganisms. Enterococcus faecalis was more resistant than C. albicans to CH preparations. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2009; 108: 297-301)