Evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy and osteogenic potential of hydrogel made with palladium nanoparticles and chitosan coated on titanium discs: an in vitro study

Abstract

ABSTRACT STATEMENT OF PROBLEM The loss of natural teeth due to caries, trauma, or periodontal disease often necessitates restorative interventions such as removable partial dentures, fixed prostheses, or dental implants. Among these, osseointegrated dental implants have demonstrated high success rates, ranging from 83.9% to 98%. However, despite successful osseointegration, implant failure may still occur due to peri-implantitis—a pathological condition marked by inflammation and progressive bone loss around the implant site. Management strategies for peri-implantitis vary depending on severity and are broadly classified into non-surgical and surgical approaches. Non-surgical treatment commonly involves mechanical debridement and adjunctive use of antimicrobial agents such as chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX). Although effective, long-term use of 1% CHX gel is associated with adverse effects, prompting interest in safer alternatives. Herbal and nanomaterial-based formulations have gained attention due to their antimicrobial efficacy and biocompatibility. Palladium nanoparticles and chitosan, in particular, have shown promising antibacterial activity against pathogens implicated in early peri-implant infections. Their incorporation into hydrogels offers a potential site-specific drug delivery system. The present study aims to develop and evaluate a palladium nanoparticle–chitosan hydrogel for its antimicrobial efficacy against early peri-implantitis pathogens, exploring its potential as a novel therapeutic alternative for localized, controlled drug delivery in implant dentistry. PURPOSE To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and the osteogenic potential of palladium nanoparticles and chitosan hydrogel coated on titanium discs.