Fucoidan-Derived Carbon Dots Against Enterococcus Faecalis Biofilm and Infected Dentinal Tubules for the Treatment of Persistent Endodontic Infections

The study explored the use of fucoidan-derived carbon dots (FDCDs) as a treatment for persistent endodontic infections caused by Enterococcus faecalis biofilms. FDCDs were synthesized and demonstrated significant antibacterial and antibiofilm properties by generating reactive oxygen species and altering bacterial permeability. They effectively penetrated root canals and dentinal tubules, achieving over 85% inhibition of E. faecalis at concentrations of 3 and 4 mg/mL. FDCDs also showed good cytocompatibility and promoted macrophage recruitment, suggesting their potential as a safe and effective alternative to traditional root canal disinfectants like NaClO, without the associated corrosive effects.