Preparation and Characterization of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Films Containing Mica Particles and Assessment of Their Antibacterial Activity.

Aims and background: Dental caries is a chronic microbiological disease affecting the hard tissues such as enamel and dentin. There have been concerted efforts in trying to mitigate this disease, but there is still a lacuna in finding an effective solution. One of the mainstays of dental caries prevention has been the use of fluorides. But because of negative aspects like toxicity, plateau effect, and the necessity for professional application, there is still a need for an alternative. The aim of this study is to prepare, characterize, and assess the antibacterial properties of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose films containing mica particles.

Materials and methods: In this study, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) oral dissolving films were prepared with 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% mica. A control film was prepared without mica. The prepared films were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis. The physical properties, such as thickness, pH, visual appearance of the films, and disintegration time, were measured. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity was assessed against S. mutans by agar disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC).

Results: The results indicated successful incorporation of mica into the HPMC-based films, which was confirmed in the FTIR, XRD, and SEM. The antibacterial results showed that 8% mica-HPMC film showed the highest zone of inhibition (ZOI) of 14 mm, which then decreased with the decrease in the concentration of mica. The MIC and MBC were found to be the lowest in the 8% mica-HPMC group and the 2% mica-HPMC group, and highest in the control group.

Conclusion: Therefore, this novel preparation of mica incorporated into HPMC films can be easily formulated and emerges as a promising material for anticariogenic applications.

Clinical significance: This is a novel product incorporating mica-based for the prevention of caries. From previous literature, mica-based has shown antibacterial activity in vitro and has a bone regenerative property. Antibacterial activity will reduce the S. mutans count and adhesion of the bacteria, thereby eliminating the causative agent of caries.

How to cite this article: Jairam LS, Gali S, R D, et al. Preparation and Characterization of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Films Containing Mica Particles and Assessment of Their Antibacterial Activity. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(6):695-702.