PCLI2/Ca(OH)2 bioactive composite for endodontic treatment

The use of biodegradable macroporous polymer–ceramic composites in treating bone defects has become widely used in clinical practice. In this work, the synthesis and characterization of the composite poly(ɛ-caprolactone)-iodine/calcium hydroxide (PCLI2/Ca(OH)2), developed for endodontic therapy are presented. The composite was obtained by the ring opening of the ɛ-caprolactone monomer using iodine (I2) as catalyst. The microstructural analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicates that the composite PCLI2/Ca(OH)2 has a macroporous sponge-like structure. The biodegradable composite showed excellent antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The X-ray radiography of the implanted composite revealed a good adhesion in the root canal and excellent radiopacity.