On-Demand Neutral Electrolyzed Water-Containing Hydrogel with Tunable Available Chlorine Concentration Based on Methylcellulose–Agar Composite

Le résumé fourni par la source

Neutral electrolyzed water (NW) is widely used in dentistry because of its strong bactericidal activity and high biosafety; however, its clinical application is limited by short retention time in the oral cavity and by the difficulty in maintaining and adjusting the available chlorine concentration (ACC) on-site. This study aimed to develop an on-demand NW-containing hydrogel (NWJ) that allows adjustment of ACC immediately before use while maintaining antimicrobial efficacy and handling properties. A methylcellulose–agar composite gel was prepared as a base gel and mixed with high-concentration NW to obtain prototype NWJs with target ACCs ranging 20–100 mg/L. Physicochemical properties (pH and ACC), time-dependent changes in ACC, bactericidal activity against Streptococcus mutans, and gel spreadability were evaluated. The base gel showed improved resistance to syneresis compared with an agar-only gel. All NWJs maintained a pH of approximately 6–7, exceeding the critical pH for enamel demineralization. Loss of ACC during gel preparation was less than 5%, and gradual ACC reduction was observed. Complete bactericidal activity was achieved at ACCs of 10 mg/L or higher, and gelation did not compromise antibacterial efficacy. These findings demonstrate that the developed NWJ provides a practical platform for clinical application of NW in dentistry.

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