Flexural strength and compressive strength of conventional glass ionomer luting cement and resin modified glass ionomer luting cement after incorporation of chlorhexidine

Introduction Glass ionomer luting cements (GIC) and Resin modified glass ionomer luting cements (RMGIC) are used to attach and seal fixed dental prostheses to teeth. Despite of their anticariogenic properties, there is still existence of caries. Studies have shown incorporation of chlorhexidine (CHX) can increase its antimicrobial action without affecting their physical properties. Objectives of the study The objective was to evaluate the effect of incorporation of CHX on flexural and compressive strength of conventional GIC and RMGIC. To compare the strength of both the cements on incorporation of CHX. Methodology: Forty bar shaped specimens and cylindrical specimens of both the cements were prepared for flexural strength and compressive strength testing using stainless steel mold. CHX powder was incorporated into experimental groups of both luting cements in a concentration of 1%. Specimens were stored in artificial saliva for 24 hours. Flexural strength and compressive strength of the specimens was determined using universal testing machine. Morphological evaluations for fractured surfaces were done using scanning electron microscopy. The data was statistically analyzed using independent sample t-test. Result: The results of the study showed that, addition of 1% CHX decreased compressive and flexural strength of both conventional GIC and RMGIC. On addition of CHX RMGIC showed better compressive and flexural strength compared to conventional GIC. Conclusions: The Chlorhexidine (CHX) amount should be kept below 1% for both the cements to sustain their strength.