Antimicrobial activity of extracts of calcium hydroxide points.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vitro the antibacterial effect of calcium hydroxide points by using a broth dilution test. Extracts of calcium hydroxide points and a calcium hydroxide paste (Calasept) were tested by using 2 facultative anaerobic bacteria, Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 27352) and Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212). Saline solution was used as a control. Each tested agent was kept in contact with the bacterial species used for the experiment for 5 minutes, 1 hour, 1 day, 2 days, and 5 days. Results showed that Calasept paste was effective in killing the tested bacteria, whereas calcium hydroxide points and saline showed bacterial survival in all experimental periods. It was concluded that calcium hydroxide points extract is not an effective antimicrobial agent against the tested bacteria.