Dental Biofilm Research Articles

LOCAL RISK FACTORS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PERIODONTAL DISEASES IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Purpose: To estimate the prevalence of gingivitis associated with dental biofilm and to investigate the influence of local risk factors on the development of inflammatory process in the gums in children and adolescents. Materials and Methods: 117 children and adolescents aged 12 to 17 years at the Dental Medical Centre of the Bogomolets National Medical University were examined. All participants were examined for periodontal status, state of oral hygiene, and local risk factors for periodontal diseases. Results: A high prevalence of gingivitis associated with dental plaque (89.7%) was found in children and adolescents aged 12-17 years. The overwhelming majority of them (71.4%) had gingivitis caused by dental biofilm and local risk factors. The prevalence of malocclusions and anomalies of individual teeth was 60%. Carious tooth lesions and poor-quality proximal restorations were detected in 37.1% of participants. Violations of the rules of individual hygienic care of the oral cavity were observed in 54.3% of patients. Conclusion: Local risk factors lead to a significant deterioration in periodontal health in childhood and adolescence, especially in the case of their combined adverse effects. Significant predictors of gingivitis include the accumulation of microbial biofilm and tartar due to poor oral hygiene, dentoalveolar anomalies, carious cavities and proximal restorations, irregular toothbrushing and poor interdental hygiene. The high prevalence of gingivitis necessitates the priority development of primary prevention of inflammatory periodontal diseases in children and adolescents.

Vesicular Messages from Dental Biofilms for Neutrophils.

The encounter between dental biofilm and neutrophils in periodontitis remains elusive, although it apparently plays a crucial role in the periodontal pathology and constitutes a key topic of periodontology. Dental biofilm and neutrophils were isolated from orally healthy persons and patients with periodontitis. We investigated biofilm and its particle-shedding phenomenon with electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA); biofilm shedding-neutrophil interactions were examined ex vivo with epi-fluorescence microscopy. For this purpose, we used acellular dental biofilm shedding, purified lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) as activators, and the interleukin 8 receptor beta (CXCR2) inhibitor and the anti-interleukin 8 receptor alpha (CXCR1) antibody as modulators. The shedding of acellular dental biofilms overwhelmingly consists of bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs). The latter induced the moderate formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in orally healthy subjects and a strong formation in patients with periodontitis. A CXCR2 inhibitor and an anti-CXCR1 antibody had a minor effect on NET formation. Neutrophils from patients with periodontitis exhibited NET hyper-responsiveness. BEVs were stronger inducers of NET formation than purified LPS and PMA. A plateau of neutrophil responsiveness is reached above the age of 40 years, indicating the abrupt switch of maladaptive trained immunity (TI) into the activated modus. Our results suggest that dental biofilms consist of and disseminate immense amounts of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), which initiate NET formation via a non-canonical cytosolic LPS/caspase-4/11/Gasdermin D pathway. This modus of NET formation is independent of neutrophil elastase (NE), myeloperoxidase (MPO), peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4), and toll-like receptors (TLR). In periodontitis, the hyper-responsiveness of neutrophils to BEVs and the increased NET formation appear to be a consequence of TI.

Periodontitis could affect functional connectivity in the brain leading to worsening of neuro psychiatric disorders – A hypothesis

It is a well-known fact that periodontitis is the result of destruction of the tooth supporting structures caused primarily by oral dysbiosis of dental plaque biofilm ultimately leading to tooth loss. The condition is very common and several studies have ascertained the association of periodontitis with systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, adverse pregnancy outcomes, Alzheimer’s disease, mental depression due to chronic low grade inflammatory state. Functional connectivity has been described as the temporal coincidence of spatially distant neurophysiological events including mental depression. With the available information literature, the present manuscript aims to hypothesize that a low-grade inflammatory state in periodontitis could alter functional connectivity relationships in different brain regions thereby could increase the risk and severity of mental depression in the affected individuals.

Microbiota of Saliva: A Non-invasive Diagnostic Tool.

Potential of salivary microbiota as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for various diseases are explained in the present review. Traditional diagnostic methods rely on blood, which has limitations in terms of collection and biomarker specificity. We discuss the concept of normal flora and how disruptions in oral microbiota can be indicative of diseases. Saliva, harboring a diverse microbial community, offers promise as a diagnostic biomarker source for oral and non-oral conditions. We delve into the role of microbial dysbiosis in disease pathogenesis and the prospects of using biological indicators like dysbiosis for diagnosis, prediction, and monitoring. This review also emphasizes the significance of saliva microbiota in advancing early disease detection and timely intervention. We addressed the following research question and objectives: Can the microbiota of saliva serve as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for the early detection and monitoring of both oral and non-oral diseases? To achieve this, we will explore the normal flora of microorganisms in the oral cavity, the impact of microbial dysbiosis, and the potential of using specific pathogenic microorganisms as biomarkers. Additionally, we will investigate the correlation between oral and non-oral diseases by analyzing total saliva or site-specific dental biofilms for signs of symbiosis or dysbiosis. This research seeks to contribute valuable insights into the development of a non-invasive diagnostic approach with broad applications in healthcare.

Effect of supplementary sodium hypochlorite agitation techniques on an exvivo oral multispecies biofilm during passive disinfection of simulated immature roots.

To compare the effect of different sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) agitation techniques on an exvivo oral multispecies biofilm during passive disinfection of simulated immature roots. Extracted human teeth were prepared to simulate immature roots. They were infected with a dental plaque-derived multispecies biofilm and cultured for 14 days. The roots were randomly designated into four groups: (1) negative control (PBS), (2) 1.5% NaOCl (CNI), (3) CNI + Ultrasonic activation (UA), (4) CNI + EasyClean agitation (ECA), (5) CNI + XP-endo finisher agitation (XPF), and (6) positive control (6% NaOCl). Biofilm samples were collected from the root canals and used to determine the number of viable cells (colony-forming units), scanning electron microscopy, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The mean colony-forming units per mL (CFU/mL) were analysed using One-way anova. 16S rRNA sequencing data were analysed for alpha (observed OTUs, Shannon index, and Chao1) and beta diversity (Bray-Curtis dissimilarities). The LEfSe analysis was used to determine the effect of treatment procedures on the abundance of root canal microbiota. The significance was set at .05. PBS and CNI samples had significantly higher CFU/mL counts than UA, ECA, XPF, and 6% NaOCl samples (p < .05). The pre-treatment, PBS, and CNI groups had significantly greater alpha diversity than the UA, ECA, XPF, and 6% NaOCl groups (p < .05). NaOCl agitation groups and the 6% NaOCl group achieved a more pronounced reduction in bacteria from the genera Fusobacterium, Actinomyces, Porphyromonas, and Capnocytophaga. The effectiveness of passive disinfection protocols was enhanced by NaOCl agitation techniques, suggesting that this supplementary method can improve the outcome of revitalization procedures.

Comparative evaluation of the effect of 2% graphene oxide and 5% hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in isolation and in combination on micro tensile bond strength of 5th generation adhesive

Background Graphene is the thinnest, strongest, and stiffest imaginable material. The biocompatible property of graphene oxide can initiate and facilitate cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of periodontal ligament, osteogenic, and oral epithelial cells. Furthermore, the antibiofilm and anti-adhesion properties of graphene oxide in the prevention of dental biofilm infections, dental caries, and dental erosion as well as for implant surface modification and as an anti-quorum sensing agent. Composites are the most often utilized materials for restoration in the field of dentistry due to adhesive resins' improved mechanical and cosmetic properties. To safeguard the dentin and prevent dental cavities, dentin adhesives are utilized to affix hydrophobic resin composites to hydrophilic dentin tissue. Materials and Method Dental adhesives have a harder time adhering to dentin because it contains more water and is less mineralized than enamel. This makes the method more sensitive. Result As a result, it was chosen to assess and contrast the impact of 5% Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and 2% Graphene oxide nanoparticles, both separately and together, on the Micro tensile bond strength of 5th generation adhesive. Conclusion Graphene oxide is the most versatile form of Graphite in structural and functional configuration. Graphene oxide possesses extraordinary physical, chemical, optical, electrical and mechanical properties. Among the graphene family nanomaterials, the reduced form of Graphite adding the oxygenated functional group to the structure increases the surface area and therefore exhibits enviable excellent interaction ability with metal and ions as well as organic species. Graphene oxide in dentistry has provided outstanding results in antimicrobial action, regenerative dentistry, bone tissue engineering, drug delivery, physicochemical properties, enhancement of dental biomaterials and oral cancer treatment.

Redox biomarkers in saliva and nuclear abnormalities in jugal epithelial cells of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and periodontitis

ObjectiveTo evaluate salivary redox biomarkers levels in individuals with periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and correlate with periodontal parameters and nuclear alterations in epithelial cells from jugal mucosa. Design: Sixty individuals were categorized into three groups: T2DM with periodontitis (DM, n = 20), non-T2DM with periodontitis (PE, n = 20), and non-T2DM with periodontal health (HC, n = 20). All participants underwent fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin measurements. After a periodontal examination, samples of epithelial cells from the jugal mucosa and saliva were collected. DNA damage was assessed by counting nuclear abnormalities using cytological analysis. Biomarkers of oxidative stress were determined through biochemical methods. Significant differences among groups were assessed using Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, and Chi-square tests at a 5% significance level. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient, linear regression, and logistic regression. ResultsFrequencies of nuclear abnormalities, as well as levels of reduced glutathione and uric acid, were significantly higher in the DM group compared to the PE and HC groups (p < 0.05). Fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, nuclear abnormalities, reduced glutathione, and uric acid exhibited positive correlations with periodontal parameters (p < 0.05). Furthermore, reduced glutathione was associated with dental biofilm (OR = 1.027 [95% CI, 1.004–1.049]) and condensed chromatin (OR = 0.415 [95% CI, 0.196–0.878]). ConclusionsPeriodontitis and T2DM are correlated with nuclear abnormalities, as well as salivary reduced glutathione and uric acid levels. Moreover, a higher prevalence of teeth with dental biofilm increases the likelihood of elevated levels of reduced glutathione in saliva, while the presence of condensed chromatin decreases that likelihood.

The Influence of Hydroxyapatite, Titanium, and Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Oxide on Diversity of Bacterial Cultures Grown from Human Dental Biofilm Specimens in an In Vitro Model

Background: Titanium (TI) and yttria stabilized-zirconia oxide (YSZ) are dental materials commonly utilized at the soft-tissue interface surrounding dental implants. The influence of these surfaces on bacterial adhesion and biofilm development may affect clinical performance and patient susceptibility to inflammatory peri-implant disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the substrate material on biofilm diversity. Methods: Biofilms were cultured on TI, YSZ, and hydroxyapatite (HA) surfaces (control) using plaque specimens obtained from three human donors. Duplicate cultures grew for one, two, three, six or nine days. Biofilm diversity was then analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. The Shannon Diversity Index (SDI) was calculated for each experimental group. Microbial profiles were intercompared in a pairwise fashion to establish dissimilarity scores, which were recorded in a distance dissimilarity matrix. Results: A total of 16 taxa were identified, and relative abundances of the predominant phyla and genera did not appear statistically different across experimental groups. Biofilms grown on HA surfaces exhibited significantly higher alpha diversity compared with those formed on TI or YSZ (p&lt;0.0001), although biofilms cultured on TI and YSG surfaces exhibited comparable diversity. Statistically significant differences in beta diversity associated with substrate (p=0.012) and growth period (p=0.001) were detected. Conclusions: Under the conditions described, biofilms grown on TI or YSZ appeared significantly less complex than those formed on HA. Transmucosal implant abutment surface characteristics represent one modifiable factor potentially influencing risk of peri-implant disease. Among risk of peri-implant disease. Among multiple considerations in abutment design, biofilm diversity performance may represent a clinically relevant benchmark.

Effects of Stress on Periodontium

Periodontal diseases are common chronic inflammatory diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms colonizing the subgingival area and inducing local and systemic elevations of pro-inflammatory cytokines resulting in tissue destruction. One of them, psychological stress, has been proposed to have a negative impact on the results of periodontal therapy. Patients with periodontal illnesses have higher levels of stress markers in their blood and saliva. These stress markers can affect the course of the disease by altering the inflammatory response and changing the makeup of the dental biofilm, among other processes. This review seeks to shed light on the connection between periodontal diseases and psychological stress.

Bioprospecting and Exploration of Phytochemicals as Quorum Sensing Inhibitors against Cariogenic Dental Biofilm

Dental caries is a polymicrobial infection affecting the dental hard tissues. Excessive carbohydrate intake leads to the accumulation of acid-producing and acid-resistant microorganisms in the oral region. It is a biofilm-dependent oral infection with cariogenic pathogens and the most prevalent disease globally. The prevention and control of caries play a vital role in global health management. Periodontal diseases and subgingival plaque etiology are due to the combined action of bacterial invasion and immune reaction, resulting in the devastation of periodontal tissues, culminating in tooth loss. The compact micro colony inhabiting the dental surfaces attaches with secreted polymer, forming a biofilm. Bacterial biofilm impervious to various drugs and chemicals poses a significant challenge in therapeutic scenarios of medical and odonatological infections. The quorum-sensing signaling mechanism in bacteria controls the metabolic and physiologic properties involved in bacterial existence, pathogenesis, and virulence. Hence, studies monitoring the molecular mechanism of quorum sensing and their restricted social interactions will be highly beneficial in the treatment regimen of the modern era. Natural bioactive compounds can be exploited for their medicinal value in combating oro-dental infections. Phytochemicals are promising candidates that could provide novel strategies for fighting infections. The current review highlights the mechanism of quorum sensing, plant products’ effect in controlling quorum sensing, and biofilm-induced dental infections like Periodontitis.

Evaluation of flexural strength, impact strength, and surface microhardness of self-cured acrylic resin reinforced with silver-doped carbon nanotubes

BackgroundPoly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a type of polymer mostly used to make denture bases. Self-cured acrylic resin (PMMA) can be used to repair a fractured acrylic denture base; however, even after repair, this area remains vulnerable. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) could be used as a filler for polymer reinforcement. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles are efficient agents for the prevention of dental biofilm and improving their mechanical properties. The doping of CNTs with silver nanoparticles may lead to a synergistic interaction that is predicted to enhance the mechanical characteristics of the fillers.ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to assess the influnce of manual incorporation of 0.5% weight percent (%wt.) of silver doped carbon nanotubes (Ag-doped CNTs) into commercial self-cured PMMA on its flexural strength, impact strength, and surface microhardness.MethodsIn this investigation, a total of 60 specimens comprised of acrylic resin were employed. They are divided into two main groups: (a) the control group, which was made by using liquid monomer and commercial self-cured PMMA powder; and (b) the modified group, prepared by hand mixing the purchased silver-doped CNTs powder (0.5% wt.) to self-cured PMMA powder (99.5%wt.), and then the blended powder was incorporated into the liquid monomer. Flexural strength, flexural modulus, impact strength, and surface microhardness were evaluated. Independent sample t-tests were used to statistically analyze the data and compare the mean values of flexural strength, flexural modulus, impact strength, and surface microhardness (p-value ≤ 0.05).ResultsThe flexural strength of the modified groups with Ag-doped CNTs (132.4 MPa) was significantly greater than that of the unmodified (control) groups (63.2 MPa). Moreover, the flexural modulus of the modified groups with Ag-doped CNTs (3.067 GPa) was significantly greater than that of the control groups (1.47 GPa). Furthermore, the impact strength of the modified groups with Ag-doped CNTs (11.2 kJ/mm2) was significantly greater than that of the control groups (2.3 kJ/mm2). Furthermore, the microhardness of the modified groups with Ag-doped CNTs (29.7 VHN) was significantly greater than that of the control groups (16.4 VHN), (p-value = 0.0001).ConclusionThe incorporation of 0.5% wt. silver doped CNTs fillers to the self-cured acrylic resin enhanced its flexural strength, flexural modulus, impact strength, and surface microhardness.

Combined pH ratiometry and fluorescence lectin-binding analysis (pH-FLBA) for microscopy-based analyses of biofilm pH and matrix carbohydrates.

Bacterial biofilms have a complex and heterogeneous three-dimensional architecture that is characterized by chemically and structurally distinct microenvironments. Confocal microscopy-based pH ratiometry and fluorescence lectin-binding analysis (FLBA) are well-established methods to characterize pH developments and the carbohydrate matrix architecture of biofilms at the microscale. Here, we developed a combined analysis, pH-FLBA, to concomitantly map biofilm pH and the distribution of matrix carbohydrates in bacterial biofilms while preserving the biofilm microarchitecture. As a proof of principle, the relationship between pH and the presence of galactose- and fucose-containing matrix components was investigated in dental biofilms grown with and without sucrose. The pH response to a sucrose challenge was monitored in different areas at the biofilm base using the ratiometric pH-sensitive dye C-SNARF-4. Thereafter, the fucose- and galactose-specific fluorescently labeled lectins Aleuria aurantia lectin (AAL) and Morus nigra agglutinin G (MNA-G) were used to visualize carbohydrate matrix components in the same biofilm areas and their immediate surroundings. Sucrose during growth significantly decreased biofilm pH (P < 0.05) and increased the amounts of both MNA-G- and AAL-targeted matrix carbohydrates (P < 0.05). Moreover, it modulated the biofilm composition towards a less diverse community dominated by streptococci, as determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Altogether, these results suggest that the production of galactose- and fucose-containing matrix carbohydrates is related to streptococcal metabolism and, thereby, pH profiles in dental biofilms. In conclusion, pH-FLBA using lectins with different carbohydrate specificities is a useful method to investigate the association between biofilm pH and the complex carbohydrate architecture of bacterial biofilms.IMPORTANCEBiofilm pH is a key regulating factor in several biological and biochemical processes in environmental, industrial, and medical biofilms. At the microscale, microbial biofilms are characterized by steep pH gradients and an extracellular matrix rich in carbohydrate components with diffusion-modifying properties that contribute to bacterial acid-base metabolism. Here, we propose a combined analysis of pH ratiometry and fluorescence lectin-binding analysis, pH-FLBA, to concomitantly investigate the matrix architecture and pH developments in microbial biofilms, using complex saliva-derived biofilms as an example. Spatiotemporal changes in biofilm pH are monitored non-invasively over time by pH ratiometry, while FLBA with lectins of different carbohydrate specificities allows mapping the distribution of multiple relevant matrix components in the same biofilm areas. As the biofilm structure is preserved, pH-FLBA can be used to investigate the in situ relationship between the biofilm matrix architecture and biofilm pH in complex multispecies biofilms.

Bacterial contamination of air and surfaces during dental procedures-An experimental pilot study using Staphylococcus aureus.

The oral cavity contains numerous microorganisms, including antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. These microorganisms can be transmitted via respiratory particles from patients to healthcare providers and vice versa during dental care. We evaluated the spread of Staphylococcus aureus during standardized dental procedures using different scaling devices and rinsing solutions. During systematic therapy for dental biofilm removal (guided biofilm therapy), using an airflow or ultrasound device to a model simulation head. Staphylococcus aureus suspension was injected into the mouth of the model to mimic saliva. Different suction devices (conventional saliva ejector or a prototype) and rising solutions (water or chlorhexidine) were used. To assess contamination with S. aureus, an air-sampling device was placed near the oral cavity and samples of surface areas were collected. S. aureus was only detected by air sampling when the conventional saliva ejector with airflow was used. No growth was observed during treatments with the ultrasonic piezo instrument or the prototype suction device. Notably, a rinsing solution of chlorhexidine digluconate decreased the bacterial load compared to water. Surface contamination was rarely detected (1 of 120 samples). Although our findings indicate potential airborne bacterial transmission during routine prophylactic procedures, specific treatment options during biofilm removal appear to reduce air contamination. These options include ultrasonic piezo devices or the prototype suction device. The use of chlorhexidine reduced the CFU counts of S. aureus detected by air sampling. Surface contamination during dental procedures was a rare occurrence.

The commercially available oral rinse vs. curcumin photosensitizers in an artificial mouth model mimicking their use after meals on early colonizers single species biofilm: An in vitro study.

Commercially available oral rinses contain active ingredients with concentration that is claimed by manufacturers to be effective as antiplaque agent. To date there has been no mention of the effect of oral rinse on the adherence of early plaque colonizers in plaque formation and the concentration to be used before/after meals. The chief aim of the study was to evaluate microbial retention on the salivary pellicle on treatment with oral rinses (CHX & EO)/PS (mimicking after meals use of mouth wash/PS). Noordini's Artifical Mouth model was used for developing the single species biofilm with early microbial colonizers of oral biofilm (A. viscosus, Strep. mitis and Strep. sanguinis respectively). The microbial retention on use of oral rinses comprising of CHX and EO as an active ingredients respectively was compared with Curcumin PS. For evaluating the microbial retention, the pellicle with microbial inoculation was developed on the glass beads in the mouth model. Subsequently the respective single specie biofilm was exposed to the mouth wash and PS after inoculation. It mimicked as use of mouth wash/PS after meals. The bacterial count in the dental biofilm was evaluated on serial dilution (CFU/ml). Sterile deionized water was used as a negative control. For qualitative analysis, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to evaluate the microbial count. From the data it was observed that for the treatment of single species experimental biofilm with commercially available mouth rinses (CHX & EO) and PS (curcumin), there was significant retention for S.mitis, S.sanguinis and A.viscosus. There was no significant difference observed between PS and CHX treated single species biofilm. Whereas a significant difference was observed between EO treated biofilms and CHX/PS treated biofilms (p⩽ 0.05). It can be concluded from the results that curcumin PS and CHX should not be used after meals whereas EO containing mouth rinse can be used to maintain the oral mocroflora.

Polyketides/nonribosomal peptides from Streptococcus mutans and their ecological roles in dental biofilm.

Streptococcus mutans is the major etiological agent of dental caries in humans. S. mutans overgrowth within dental biofilms can trigger biofilm dysbiosis, ultimately leading to the initiation or progression of dental caries. Polyketides and nonribosomal peptides (PKs/NRPs) are secondary metabolites with complex structures encoded by a cluster of biosynthetic genes. Although not essential for microbial growth, PKs/NRPs play important roles in physiological regulation. Three main classes of hybrid PKs/NRPs in S. mutans have been identified, including mutanobactin, mutanocyclin, and mutanofactin, encoded by the mub, muc, and muf gene clusters, respectively. These three hybrid PKs/NRPs play important roles in environmental adaptation, biofilm formation, and interspecies competition of S. mutans. In this review, we provide an overview of the major hybrid PKs/NRPs of S. mutans, including mutanobactin, mutanocyclin, and mutanofactin and address their ecological roles in dental biofilms. We place specific emphasis on important questions that are yet to be answered to provide novel insights into the cariogenic mechanism of S. mutans and facilitate improved management of dental caries. We highlight that S. mutans PKs/NRPs may be potential novel targets for the prevention and treatment of S. mutans-induced dental caries. The development of genomics, metabolomics, and mass spectrometry, together with the integration of various databases and bioinformatics tools, will allow the identification and synthesis of other secondary metabolites. Elucidating their physicochemical properties and their ecological roles in oral biofilms is crucial in the identification of novel targets for the ecological management of dental caries.

Technological advancements for the management of oral biofilm

The oral cavity provides an excellent opportunity for the formation of biofilm on its various surfaces due to the presence of sumptuous nutrients and other favourable environments. Biofilm formed on the dental surface leads to caries, which ultimately leads to diseases like periodontitis and eventual tooth loss. Biofilm formation on the dental surface causes caries, which eventually leads to diseases like periodontitis and tooth loss. A high volume of research is being conducted to manage the oral biofilm, which may cause not only dental problems but also a variety of systemic disorders. Nanotechnology, as part of modern technological advancement, is used in a variety of ways to manage oral biofilm. Nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and other nano configurations have been found to be effective in eradicating oral biofilm and are a promising candidate for the preparation of tooth pastes and mouthwash. The nanorobots, in the form of dentifrobots and surface topography-adaptive robotic superstructures (STARS), can reach each and every corner of the oral cavity to convey the drug using the ferromagnetic component as a propulsion force.Proper detection of dental biofilm may be precisely done with the help of artificial intelligence by a computer-assisted detection system based on a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm. Hence, the recent hi-tech achievement can easily replace the tedious conventional techniques of oral biofilm management and add convenience to dental and oral therapeutics.

Measurement and analysis of microbial fluoride resistance in dental biofilm models.

The interactions between communities of microorganisms inhabiting the dental biofilm is a major determinant of oral health. These biofilms are periodically exposed to high concentrations of fluoride, which is present in almost all oral healthcare products. The microbes resist fluoride through the action of membrane export proteins. This chapter describes the culture, growth and harvest conditions of model three-species dental biofilm comprised of cariogenic pathogens Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans and the commensal bacterium Streptococcus gordonii. In order to examine the role of fluoride export by S. mutans in model biofilms, procedures for generating a strain of S. mutans with a genetic knockout of the fluoride exporter are described. We present a case study examining the effects of this mutant strain on the biofilm mass, acid production and mineral dissolution under exposure to low levels of fluoride. These general approaches can be applied to study the effects of any gene of interest in physiologically realistic multispecies oral biofilms.

Anti-biofilm effectiveness of protocols for cleaning complete dentures in hospitalized patients: a randomized controlled trial.

Denture biofilm acts as a potential reservoir for respiratory pathogens, considerably increasing the risk of lung infections, specifically aspiration pneumonia, mainly 48h after hospital admission. The establishment of a straightforward, affordable, and applicable hygiene protocol in a hospital environment for the effective control of denture biofilm can be particularly useful to prevent respiratory infections or reduce the course of established lung disease. To evaluate the anti-biofilm effectiveness of denture cleaning protocols in hospitalized patients. The maxillary complete dentures (MCDs) of 340 hospitalized participants were randomly cleaned once using one of the following 17 protocols (n=20): brushing with distilled water, toothpaste, or neutral liquid soap (controls); immersion in chemical solutions (1% sodium hypochlorite, alkaline peroxide, 0.12% or 2% chlorhexidine digluconate), or microwave irradiation (650 W for 3 min) combined or not with brushing. Before and after the application of the protocols, the biofilm of the intaglio surface of the MCDs was evaluated using two methods: denture biofilm coverage area (%) and microbiological quantitative cultures on blood agar and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (CFU/mL). Data were subjected to the Wilcoxon and Kruskal-Wallis tests (α=0.05). All 17 protocols significantly reduced the percentage area of denture biofilm and microbial and fungal load (P<0.05). The highest percentage reductions in the area of denture biofilm were observed for 1% hypochlorite solution with or without brushing and for 2% chlorhexidine solution and microwave irradiation only in association with brushing (P<0.05). The greatest reductions in microbial and fungal load were found for the groups that used solutions of 2% chlorhexidine and 1% hypochlorite and microwave irradiation, regardless of the association with brushing (P<0.05). A single immersion for 10 min in 1% sodium hypochlorite, even in the absence of brushing, proved to be a straightforward, rapid, low-cost, and effective protocol for cleaning the dentures of hospitalized patients.

The effect of periodontal health and disease on interleukin 1β and nesfatin-1 levels in gingival crevicular fluid: A cross-sectional study.

Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease associated with dental biofilm, poses a significant threat to oral health. This study explores the roles of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and nesfatin-1 in periodontal diseases, aiming to contribute to the molecular understanding of their pathogenesis. A diverse cohort of 62 participants was recruited, spanning ages 20 to 60, and categorized into healthy, gingivitis, and periodontitis groups. Clinical measurements, including plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and bleeding on probing, were conducted. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were collected for IL-1β and nesfatin-1 analysis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis employed Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman correlation tests. Significant differences in oral hygiene habits were observed among groups, particularly in the 40-60 age range. Clinical indices showed variations, with the highest IL-1β levels in the periodontitis group and the lowest nesfatin-1 levels. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between IL-1β, nesfatin-1, and oral indices. While providing valuable insights, we acknowledge this study's limitations, including a cross-sectional design and a specific age range. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and larger cohorts, and explore broader inflammatory markers, genetic influences, and confounding variables for a more comprehensive understanding of periodontal diseases. The findings underscore the complex interplay between inflammatory markers and periodontal health.

Periodontitis: etiology, conventional treatments, and emerging bacteriophage and predatory bacteria therapies.

Inflammatory periodontal diseases associated with the accumulation of dental biofilm, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are very common and pose clinical problems for clinicians and patients. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease and when treated quickly and properly is completely reversible. Periodontitis is an advanced and irreversible disease of the periodontium with periods of exacerbations, progressions and remission. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that damages the tissues supporting the tooth in its socket, i.e., the gums, periodontal ligaments, root cementum and bone. Periodontal inflammation is most commonly triggered by bacteria present in excessive accumulations of dental plaque (biofilm) on tooth surfaces. This disease is driven by disproportionate host inflammatory immune responses induced by imbalance in the composition of oral bacteria and changes in their metabolic activities. This microbial dysbiosis favors the establishment of inflammatory conditions and ultimately results in the destruction of tooth-supporting tissues. Apart microbial shift and host inflammatory response, environmental factors and genetics are also important in etiology In addition to oral tissues destruction, periodontal diseases can also result in significant systemic complications. Conventional methods of periodontal disease treatment (improving oral hygiene, dental biofilm control, mechanical plaque removal, using local or systemic antimicrobial agents) are not fully effective. All this prompts the search for new methods of therapy. Advanced periodontitis with multiple abscesses is often treated with antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, clindamycin, or combined therapy of amoxicillin with metronidazole. However, due to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, treatment does not always achieve the desired therapeutic effect. This review summarizes pathogenesis, current approaches in treatment, limitations of therapy and the current state of research on the possibility of application of bacteriophages and predatory bacteria to combat bacteria responsible for periodontitis. We present the current landscape of potential applications for alternative therapies for periodontitis based on phages and bacteria, and highlight the gaps in existing knowledge that need to be addressed before clinical trials utilizing these therapeutic strategies can be seriously considered.