Effects of TiO_2 photocatalyst on physical properties and antibacterial action of glass ionomer cement for luting

摘要

We examined and evaluated the physical properties and antibacterial action of glass ionomer cement (GIC) to which TiO_2 had been added at a rate of 1-10%. After being irradiated with ultraviolet light, TiO_2 demonstrates antibacterial action, suggesting that it might be useful in the prevention of secondary caries. There were no significant differences in the compressive strength, disintegration rate, and tensile bond strength between ordinary GIC and that with the 1-10% of added TiO_2. This indicates that these qualities of GIC were not affected by the addition of the TiO_2. Measurement of the contact angle was used to evaluate the hydrophilicity of GIC. The contact angle decreased with increased amounts of added TiO_2. The antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus aureus increased with the amount of added TiO_2. These results indicate that the addition of TiO_2 to GIC increases its hydrophilicity and antibacterial effects, suggesting that GIC with added TiO_2 is clinically useful.