Abstract
Objective: The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of two disinfectants against Gram-positive bacteria, particularly Streptococcus mutans,for use as a disinfectant for dental retainers.Methods: In total, 35 thermoplastic retainers in this study were categorized into three immersion groups: control group; mouthwash group, usingchlorhexidine 0.1%; and denture cleanser tablet group. The retainers were worn for 15 days, and Gram-positive bacteria were enumerated before andafter the retainers were immersed.Results: We found a significant difference in bacterial numbers between the two disinfectant groups and the non-disinfectant or control group. Bothdisinfectant groups had decreased numbers of Gram-positive bacteria.Conclusions: Disinfectant use is effective in decreasing the load of Gram-positive bacteria on thermoplastic retainers.
Highlights
The retention phase is the final phase of orthodontic treatment, which aims to maintain the achieved esthetic and functional alignment of teeth [1]
Low et al demonstrated that a bacterial colony had already developed on the surface of a thermoplastic orthodontic device after the first 6 h of use [11]
The efficacy of the disinfectants was determined in terms of the number of S. mutans colonies on TYSB20 agar before and after immersion
Summary
The retention phase is the final phase of orthodontic treatment, which aims to maintain the achieved esthetic and functional alignment of teeth [1]. The stabilization of teeth during the retention phase is obtained using an orthodontic device known as a retainer. Singh et al showed that the most popular retainers for the maxilla and mandible are thermoplastic retainers [2]. Low et al demonstrated that a bacterial colony had already developed on the surface of a thermoplastic orthodontic device after the first 6 h of use [11]. Bacterial load is directly proportional to the duration of retainer use [11]. Turkoz showed that a thermoplastic retainer is an ideal surface for the attachment of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus bacteria. Lessa et al studied bacterial contamination of removable orthodontic acrylic and showed that a retainer was gets contaminated by S. mutans, within a week of its use [9,12]. It is important to maintain the retainer and oral hygiene while using the retainer, to decrease the risk of poor oral hygiene
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
