Articles published on Dental plaque formation
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- Research Article
- 10.53992/njns.v10i4.290
- Dec 22, 2025
- NUST Journal of Natural Sciences
- Ali Haider + 6 more
Dental caries, a chronic disease of significant global reach, represents a leading public health problem affecting individuals across all age groups. The condition is characterized by the aggravating the loss of minerals in dental hard tissues, primarily due to the byproducts of bacterial metabolism that are acidic in nature. Bacterial species involved in caries development include Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, and several species of Lactobacillus . These microorganisms contain unique pathogenic mechanisms that enable them to stick to tooth surfaces, convert sugars into harmful acids and then grow in acidic environments. This review analyzes the historical context and microbiology of dental caries and details the specific roles and mechanisms of Streptococcus mutans and various strains of Lactobacillus in advancement of caries. It also discusses the formation and composition of dental plaques as a significant factor in caries development, as well as the stages and symptoms of dental cavity formation. The review further explores the current treatment strategies, including antibiotics, fluoride applications, and advanced dental restoration techniques, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations in managing the prevalence of oral health problems. The comprehension of dental caries has evolved significantly; it remains a widespread problem, especially in areas with limited access to dental care. Continued investigation and innovation are crucial to developing more potent prevention and treatment methods, ultimately reducing the worldwide burden of this disease.
- Research Article
- 10.37897/rjs.2025.4.6
- Dec 18, 2025
- Romanian Journal of Stomatology
- Mary Sheloni Missier + 3 more
Background. Orthodontic bands are prone to biofilm accumulation, leading to dental plaque formation and increased risk of caries. Incorporating antimicrobial coatings on these bands can help reduce microbial colonization. This study investigates the in-vivo antimicrobial efficacy and biocompatibility of orthodontic bands coated with green-synthesized zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles, and their nanocomposites. Materials and methods. ZnO and TiO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized using eco-friendly green synthesis methods and characterized for size and stability. Orthodontic bands were coated with individual nanoparticles and nanocomposites. The coated bands were placed intraorally in animal models. Microbial colonization by Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus mitis was assessed on days 1, 7, 14, and 30. Antifungal activity and systemic toxicity were also evaluated through microbiological and histopathological analyses. Results. ZnO-coated bands exhibited the greatest antimicrobial efficacy, demonstrating an 84-89% reduction in S. mutans CFU by Day 30 compared with uncoated controls (p < 0.001). The ZnO–TiO₂ nanocomposite coatings also showed strong activity, achieving a 72–78% reduction in both S. mutans and S. mitis (p < 0.01). All coating groups maintained consistent antimicrobial effects throughout the 30-day evaluation period, and no fungal growth was observed beyond day 1, confirming early and sustained antifungal action. Histological examination of major organs – including the liver, kidneys, and spleen – revealed normal architecture with no inflammatory or structural alterations, confirming good biocompatibility and the absence of systemic toxicity. Conclusion. Green-synthesized nanoparticle coatings, particularly ZnO, are effective in reducing microbial colonization on orthodontic bands without inducing systemic toxicity. These findings support the potential clinical application of eco-friendly antimicrobial coatings in orthodontics and warrant further investigation through long-term studies and clinical trials.
- Research Article
- 10.70818/bmcj.v011i2.0233
- Dec 15, 2025
- Barind Medical College Journal
- Tamanna Akbar + 7 more
Background: Dental plaque causes dental caries and different diseases and ultimately loss of teeth in early ages of people especially who are living in the rural areas of Bangladesh and are really not concern for their oral hygine. Objective: The objective of this research work is the prevention of Dental Plaque formation by isolation of dental plaque bacteria and using plant extract (clove-Syzygium aromaticum) against the bacteria from the medicinal plant of Bangladesh. Methodology: Plaque samples were collected from 20 patients and microorganism of oral cavity was isolated and were tested against medicinal plants methanolic extracts at a concentration of 1 mg/disc, 2mg/disc and 3mg/ disc by disc diffusion method. Result: The study result showed remarkable antibacterial activity. The zone of inhibition was in between 8mm to 20mm in 1 mg/disc. The plant extracts were again subjected to antimicrobial test with 2 mg/disc against the plaque sample of 5 patients. To rationalize the antibacterial activity 3 mg/disc of plant extracts were used against plaque of 5 patients and in this case clove extract was showed the remarkable antibacterial activity. Test results also showed the potentiality of antibacterial activity based on patient’s oral hygiene condition and among the plant extracts clove (Syzygium aromaticum) extract showed significant activity against the targeted bacterial species. Conclusion: The methanolic extract of clove, known as Syzygium aromaticum, demonstrated a strong antibacterial effect against bacteria found in dental plaque. This effect increased with higher doses. Such outcomes suggest its value as a low-cost, plant-based choice for preventing plaque formation. This approach could prove helpful in communities facing resource shortages.
- Research Article
- 10.52794/hujpharm.1639004
- Dec 1, 2025
- Hacettepe University Journal of the Faculty of Pharmacy
- Euis Reni Yuslianti + 6 more
Dental and oral diseases often arise from food debris in the mouth, which leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that facilitate interactions among microorganisms and result in dental plaque formation. This issue can be addressed by using herbal plants with minimal side effects. Sappan wood (Caesalpinia sappan L.) is extensively used in traditional medical systems to treat a myriad of conditions, from tuberculosis, diarrhea, dysentery, skin infections, and anemia. This research seeks to determine the potential of sappan wood extract as effective antioxidants and antibacterial agents in combating dental problems. The method started with the extraction of sappan wood heartwood using ethanol 70% as a solvent. Antioxidant tests were conducted through ABTS, DPPH, nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) tests, as well as antimicrobial evaluation using the disc diffusion method, Minimum Bactericide Concentration (MBC), and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). Antioxidant activities with IC50 ABTS&gt;DPPH&gt;NO&gt; H2O2 (18.42 ± 0.35 μg/mL, 41.20 ± 0.26 μg/mL,76.47 ± 0.59 μg/mL, and 90.25 ± 0.29 μg/mL). The antimicrobial compounds in sappan wood showed inhibitory effects starting at 12.5-25% concentration on S. mutans, P. gingivalis and C. albicans (1.27 mm; 53.41%, 0.81 mm; 54.86%, and 2.15 mm; 56.14%). Sappan wood extract can be an antioxidant and antibacterial agent in preventing dental problems.
- Research Article
1
- 10.33925/1683-3031-2025-934
- Nov 17, 2025
- Pediatric dentistry and dental prophylaxis
- S I Tokmakova + 5 more
Relevance. This study presents the results of a clinical evaluation of a whitening toothpaste and mouthwash used together to prevent dental plaque formation. The products demonstrated effective cleaning, a pronounced refreshing and whitening effect, cumulative improvement in oral hygiene, reduction of inflammation, anticaries activity, and decreased tooth sensitivity. Objective. To evaluate, in a clinical setting, the efficacy of a whitening toothpaste and mouthwash combination. Materials and methods. The efficacy of the toothpaste and mouthwash in preventing plaque formation was assessed using the Green–Vermillion Hygiene Index, Interdental Hygiene Index, PMA and SBI periodontal indices, enamel resistance, enamel hypersensitivity, tooth color and whitening effect, and refreshing effect measured with a visual analogue scale (VAS). Results. Oral hygiene indices demonstrated significant advantages of the tested products, including high cleaning efficacy, a pronounced refreshing effect, and cumulative improvement in oral hygiene. The cleaning and deodorizing effects were more pronounced when the toothpaste and mouthwash were used together. The products significantly reduced oral inflammation and gingival bleeding, increased enamel acid resistance (indicating enhanced caries prevention), and decreased tooth sensitivity while producing a visible whitening effect. Conclusion. Combined use of the toothpaste and mouthwash increased enamel acid resistance, which supports effective caries prevention. It also reduced tooth sensitivity and enhanced the whitening effect. Both products were well tolerated and caused no allergic reactions or irritation.
- Research Article
- 10.1007/s11259-025-10945-z
- Nov 11, 2025
- Veterinary Research Communications
- Tomoki Fukuyama + 6 more
Periodontal disease (PD) is a prevalent infectious condition in companion animals and represents an irreversible oral disorder; therefore, preventive dentistry is strongly recommended to inhibit and delay symptom progression. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effects of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and platinum nanoparticles (PT) on the growth, halitosis, and inflammatory responses of the major canine PD pathogen Porphyromonas gulae (P. gulae) both in vitro and in a clinical study involving PD-affected dogs following dental scaling. The growth of P. gulae was significantly inhibited by CPC + PT treatment. Hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan—key components of halitosis—produced by P. gulae were also significantly suppressed by the CPC and PT mixture, even after short-term treatment. Co-treatment with CPC and PT significantly inhibited P. gulae-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production and SAPK/JNK phosphorylation in response to infection. These in vitro findings were corroborated by clinical results, in which daily oral administration of CPC + PT significantly suppressed the exacerbation of gingivitis, plaque adherence, halitosis, and PD pathogen activity following dental scaling. Our results suggest that daily CPC + PT treatment may be an effective approach to delay the progression of PD symptoms in affected dogs. There is no argument that mechanical dental care including regular brushing and dental scaling is necessary as the best way to prevent dental plaque formation. A dental rinse can be used as a suitable additional treatment to extend the interval between dental scaling procedures.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11259-025-10945-z.
- Research Article
- 10.58711/turkishjdentres.vi.1664228
- Nov 10, 2025
- Türk Diş Hekimliği Araştırma Dergisi
- Mehmet Kutluhan Uçuk + 1 more
Objective: The aim of this pilot study is to assess dietitians' knowledge of oral and dental health through fundamental questions related to the formation of dental caries and to provide baseline data for future research. Material and Method: This study has a cross-sectional design. A ten-question survey, prepared on the Google Forms platform, was first administered to a pilot group of ten participants. Based on the feedback received, necessary revisions were made, and the final version of the survey was then distributed to all of the participants. A total of sixty participants providing nutrition counseling services were included in the study. Results: Based on the evaluations, 66.7% of the participants did not know what the DMFT Index represents, and 52.8% were unaware of the most appropriate dietary model for patients with a high DMFT Index. The option identified as most effective against dental caries and plaque formation—eating an apple by biting into it—was selected by 91.7% of participants. Cheese, known for its effectiveness in reducing the risk of caries after sugary food consumption, was chosen by 58.3% of respondents. For the critical pH threshold associated with an increased risk of caries, 38.9% correctly identified pH 5.5. Regarding the time required for oral pH to return to baseline after dropping below this threshold, 50% of participants responded with "30 minutes." Peanuts, which are considered tooth-friendly, were selected by 30.6% of respondents. The characteristic of being high in protein and fiber—indicative of a non-cariogenic food—was selected by 75% of participants. Cheese, a wellknown cariostatic food, was chosen by 30%. Among nutrient deficiencies, omega-3 was identified as the least suspected in patients with gum disease . Conclusion: The study results indicate that, based on the survey questions, dietitians may overlook key aspects related to oral health and nutrition. Additionally, dietary plans are not tailored according to patients' oral hygiene levels. In light of these findings, it is recommended that the role of oral and dental health be emphasized further in nutrition and dietetics curricula, and that professional associations organize educational programs to address this need.
- Research Article
- 10.1111/apm.70081
- Nov 1, 2025
- APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica
- Shivam Kumar Tiwari + 2 more
Dental plaque is a complex microbial biofilm that contributes significantly to the onset of oral diseases and related infections. The initial attachment of primary colonizers to the salivary pellicle, which coats the tooth surface, is a critical first step in plaque development. Primary colonizers use pili on their cell surfaces to facilitate attachment to host surfaces and other bacteria. Pili-mediated adhesion and interbacterial coaggregation promote oral biofilm growth. Recent structural studies of primary colonizers and other oral bacteria have provided new insights into the role of pili in dental plaque formation. Understanding the molecular intricacies of pilus assembly and adhesion paves the way for the development of antiadhesive approaches to control dental plaque formation. Disrupting initial bacterial attachment by targeting pili- and pili-mediated interactions may offer a promising strategy to prevent oral biofilm development and associated infections. This review provides updates on pili and pilus components in oral bacteria, with a focus on the primary colonizers of dental plaque from a structural perspective.
- Research Article
- 10.26714/ijd.v5i2.17544
- Aug 25, 2025
- Indonesian Journal of Dentistry
- Theresia Imelda Pascharia + 2 more
Background: Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is a natural substance known to reduce dental plaque formation due to its content of bioactive compounds, including saponins, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, and triterpenoids. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of strawberry fruit extract, prepared using 70% ethanol as a solvent through maceration to produce a concentrated liquid extract, against Streptococcus sanguinis—a bacterium associated with plaque formation.Method: The study employed microdilution and agar dilution methods. Antibacterial activity was assessed through the determination of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), indicated by a marked decrease in optical density, and the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), determined by the absence of bacterial colony growth.Outcome: Results showed that the MIC of the strawberry extract against S. sanguinis was 6.25%, while the MBC was 50%.Conclusion: These findings indicate that strawberry extract (Fragaria × ananassa) exhibits both inhibitory and bactericidal activity against the growth of Streptococcus sanguinis.
- Research Article
- 10.1128/mra.00694-25
- Jul 31, 2025
- Microbiology resource announcements
- Bibek G C + 2 more
Actinomyces oris MG-1 is a key oral commensal involved in dental plaque formation. We report its complete genome sequence, generated using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. The genome consists of a single circular chromosome of 3,042,829 bp, providing a resource for future functional studies.
- Research Article
2
- 10.1128/jb.00529-24
- May 21, 2025
- Journal of bacteriology
- Bibek G C + 1 more
Two-component systems (TCS) enable bacteria to sense and respond to environmental signals, facilitating rapid adaptation. Fusobacterium nucleatum, a key oral pathobiont, employs the CarSR TCS to modulate coaggregation with various gram-positive partners by regulating the expression of radD, encoding a surface adhesion protein, as revealed by RNA-Seq analysis. However, the direct regulation of the radD-containing operon (radABCD) by the response regulator CarR, the broader CarR regulon, and the signals sensed by this system remain unclear. In this study, chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq) identified approximately 161 CarR-enriched loci across the genome and a 17 bp consensus motif that likely serves as the CarR-binding site. Notably, one such binding motif was found in the promoter region of the radABCD operon. The interaction of CarR with this binding motif was further validated using electrophoretic mobility shift assays, mutagenesis, and DNase I footprinting analyses. Beyond regulating radABCD, CarR directly controls genes involved in fructose and amino acid (cysteine, glutamate, lysine) utilization, underscoring its role as a global regulator in F. nucleatum. Lastly, we discovered that RadD-mediated coaggregation enhances radD expression, and deletion of carS abolished this enhancement, suggesting that coaggregation itself serves as a signal sensed by this TCS. These findings provide new insights into the CarR regulon and the regulation of RadD, elucidating the ecological and pathogenic roles of F. nucleatum in dental plaque formation and disease processes.IMPORTANCEFusobacterium nucleatum is an essential member of oral biofilms acting as a bridging organism that connects early and late colonizers, thus driving dental plaque formation. Its remarkable ability to aggregate with diverse bacterial partners is central to its ecological success, yet the mechanisms it senses and responds to these interactions remain poorly understood. This study identifies the CarSR two-component system as a direct regulator of RadD, a major adhesin mediating coaggregation, and reveals its role in sensing coaggregation as a signal. These findings uncover a novel mechanism by which F. nucleatum dynamically adapts to polymicrobial environments, offering new perspectives on biofilm formation and bacterial communication in complex oral microbial ecosystems.
- Research Article
- 10.21303/2504-5695.2025.003720
- May 2, 2025
- EUREKA: Life Sciences
- Emmanuel O Garuba + 1 more
Streptococcus mutans is widely recognized as a major contributor to dental plaque formation and continues to pose significant oral health challenges across the globe. Its ability to thrive within complex biofilm structures renders it highly resistant to conventional treatment approaches, thereby playing a critical role in the onset and progression of dental caries and periodontal diseases. Despite the availability of various plaque control strategies, many suffer from limitations related to efficacy, safety, and long-term use—emphasizing the urgent need for more effective and sustainable alternatives. This study investigated the biochemical properties and anti-biofilm efficacy of dextranase from Penicillium citrinum, with the goal of evaluating its potential as a promising agent for disrupting biofilms formed by S. mutans. Dextranase was successfully purified using Sephadex G-100 gel filtration chromatography, resulting in a 3.35-fold increase in specific activity and a final enzyme yield of 73.99 %. The enzyme demonstrated optimal catalytic activity at 40 °C in its crude form and at 50 °C after purification. Additionally, it exhibited peak functionality at pH 6 and pH 4 for the crude and purified forms, respectively. Metal ion studies showed that Cu2+, Mg2+, and Fe2+ enhanced enzyme activity, whereas Zn2+, Ca2+, and EDTA had strong inhibitory effects. The purified dextranase completely prevented and eradicated S. mutans biofilm adherence (100 % inhibition), while the crude extract achieved a 44 % reduction. These findings underscore the enzyme's potential as a safe, natural, and effective anti-biofilm agent for use in biopharmaceuticals and oral hygiene solutions aimed at preventing plaque accumulation and related diseases
- Research Article
- 10.18481/2077-7566-2025-21-1-177-183
- May 1, 2025
- Actual problems in dentistry
- Anna Tropina + 2 more
Subject. The study of salivary sialoglycoprotein fractions, the activity of sialidase and salivary lysozyme in schoolchildren of key age groups at different risks of developing dental caries. Objectives. To evaluate changes in the composition of salivary sialoglycoproteins (protein-bound sialic acids, oligo-bound sialic acids, and free sialic acids) and their effect on dental plaque formation in children depending on the risk level of developing tooth decay, and also on the physicochemical and immunobiological properties of the oral fluid. Methodology. Participation in the study was based on voluntary informed consent. We conducted a prospective examination of 12-year-old students at a secondary school in the city of Teikovo, Ivanovo region. A comprehensive dental examination included the examination of the oral fluid in children with different risks of developing dental caries (minimal, moderate, and high): the rate of saliva production, the surface tension of saliva, acid-base potential of saliva, salivary lysozyme activity and sialidase activity. Results. We have obtained data on the composition of sialoglycoproteins and their effect on dental plaque formation processes in children of this age group at different risks of developing tooth decay. Conclusions. The composition of salivary glycoproteins depends on the risk level of developing dental caries in children and correlates with the processes of dental plaque formation (according to the PFRI index). The effect on sialoglycoproteins and the regulation of rheological properties of saliva is one of the pathogenetic mechanisms for the prevention of dental caries in children.
- Research Article
2
- 10.47723/f45wj039
- Apr 1, 2025
- AL-Kindy College Medical Journal
- Baraa Sadiq Mohammad + 1 more
Background: Dental caries is a prevalent oral health problem, with saliva playing a pivotal role in maintaining oral hygiene. Fasting during Ramadan offers a unique scenario where changes in dietary habits, salivary flow, and pH levels might affect dental health markers. Aim of the Study: This study aims to understand the implications of Ramadan fasting on various dental biomarkers, such as pH, Salivary Flow Rate (SFR), Glucosyltransferase (GTF), and Interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels in individuals with dental caries. Subjects and Methods: A longitudinal observational study was conducted on 40 participants with dental caries, evenly distributed between males and females, aged between 20-25 years, during and after Ramadan. Clinical data and samples were collected at the College of Dentistry/University of Baghdad, Iraq, and the Specialized Dental Center/Al-Sadr City. Participants were assessed for periodontal parameters using the Plaque Index (PLI) and the GI. Salivary samples were collected, and pH level and salivary flow rate were determined. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent Assay was utilized to detect Glucosyltransferase and interleukin-8 levels in saliva samples. Results: There was a non-significant rise in pH during fasting (6.09±0.77) compared to after fasting (5.80±0.78). The SFR showed a non-significant decline during fasting (0.74±0.35) when compared to after-fasting (0.88±0.43). Plaque and gingival indices exhibited non-significant changes between the two groups. Notably, GTF levels significantly decreased during fasting, while IL-8 levels showed a marked reduction during fasting (218.83±23.55 ng/L) compared to after fasting (389.07±35.93 ng/L). Conclusions: This study found that fasting throughout Ramadan has an impact on biomarkers related to dental health. Levels of GTF and IL-8 exhibited considerable changes, whereas pH and SFR remained unchanged. Reducing GTF levels may lead to a decrease in the formation of dental plaque and tooth decay. Decreased levels of IL-8 may suggest a decrease in inflammatory activity, which in turn lowers the risk of periodontal disease.
- Research Article
- 10.4103/irjcm.irjcm_43_24
- Mar 31, 2025
- Iraqi Journal of Community Medicine
- Ali Ghalib Mutar Mahdi + 2 more
Abstract Dental caries is a common chronic disease affecting tooth of many subjects at different ages due to biofilm-mediated oral bacterial infection. Streptococcus mutans is regarded as a pivotal cariogenic bacterium responsible for dental caries and plaque formation. It produces exopolysaccharides on the surface of the tooth promoting the colonization of cariogenic bacteria and dental biofilm development. Formation of this biofilm can be prevented by using different antimicrobial agents such as BlueM mouthwash, polypyrrole, natural flavonoids, and endocannabinoid anandamide.
- Research Article
3
- 10.1038/s41522-025-00680-3
- Mar 21, 2025
- npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
- Leyi Xiao + 15 more
Periodontitis, a leading cause of adult tooth loss and linked to various systemic diseases, is promoted by subgingival plaque biofilms, with Streptococci as early colonizers responsible for surface adhesion. Current studies of Streptococci adhesion have focused on bacteria surface adhesins with acquired protein membranes on the tooth surface, yet no critical proteins with implications for the overall early adhesion of subgingival plaque have been reported. Here, we identified that the “Barrel-like adhesion domain” of streptococcal EF-Tu facilitates cell-surface attachment, promotes biofilm formation, and contributes to the development of periodontitis. In the adherent state, EF-Tu is transported from the cytoplasm to the cell surface through membrane vesicles. Furthermore, we first found that simeprevir, an FDA-approved drug, binds to the “Barrel-like adhesion domain” of EF-Tu and effectively inhibits the protein’s surface adhesion and secretory pathways. Simeprevir showed the ability to inhibit dental plaque formation and provided prevention and treatments for periodontitis.
- Research Article
2
- 10.3390/molecules30040943
- Feb 18, 2025
- Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
- Kazi Tahsin + 4 more
Cannabidiol (CBD), derived from the Cannabis plant, has shown potential in dentistry for its antimicrobial properties, particularly against oral bacteria. Denture-associated infections, a common issue among denture wearers, present a challenge in antimicrobial enhancements to poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), the primary material for dentures due to its favorable physical and aesthetic qualities. To address this, researchers developed PMMA denture coatings infused with CBD nanoparticles. The CBD coatings were synthesized using UV curing and characterized via 1H NMR, SEM, and FTIR spectroscopies. Antimicrobial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus agalactiae. CBD demonstrated significant bactericidal effects on Gram-positive bacteria with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2-2.5 µg/mL and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 10-20 µg/mL but was ineffective against planktonic Gram-negative bacteria. However, biofilm studies revealed a 99% reduction in biofilm growth for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria on CBD-infused PMMA compared to standard PMMA. The CBD disrupted bacterial cell walls, causing lysis. Dissolution studies indicated effective release of CBD molecules, crucial for antimicrobial efficacy. This study highlights CBD's potential for antibiotic-free denture coatings, reducing dental biofilms and plaque formation, and improving oral health outcomes.
- Research Article
- 10.37275/bsm.v9i4.1252
- Jan 31, 2025
- Bioscientia Medicina : Journal of Biomedicine and Translational Research
- Davin + 2 more
Background: Streptococcus mutans is a major contributor to the formation of dental plaque and the initiation of caries. Orthodontic appliances, particularly removable ones, can create favorable conditions for S. mutans colonization, increasing the risk of caries and other oral health issues. Chlorhexidine is a commonly used antimicrobial agent in dentistry, but it can have side effects like tooth staining and altered taste. Guava leaf extract has shown promising antibacterial properties due to its rich content of flavonoids, tannins, and other bioactive compounds. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of guava leaf extract and chlorhexidine in reducing S. mutans colonization on acrylic-based removable orthodontic appliances. Methods: This in vitro study used 25 acrylic plates, which were divided into five groups: guava leaf extract at concentrations of 75%, 80%, and 90%, chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2% (positive control), and aquades (negative control). The acrylic plates were first contaminated with S. mutans and then immersed in the respective solutions for 10 minutes. The number of S. mutans colonies was then counted using a colony counter. Results: The mean number of S. mutans colonies was significantly lower in the chlorhexidine group (27.8 ± 6.6 CFU/ml) and the guava leaf extract groups (9.4 ± 3.3 CFU/ml for 90%, 42 ± 7.8 CFU/ml for 80%, and 381 ± 81.1 CFU/ml for 75%) compared to the aquades group (1461.2 ± 274.5 CFU/ml). There was no significant difference between the chlorhexidine group and the 90% and 80% guava leaf extract groups. Conclusion: Guava leaf extract, particularly at concentrations of 90% and 80%, is as effective as chlorhexidine in reducing S. mutans colonization on orthodontic appliances. Guava leaf extract may be a promising natural alternative to chlorhexidine for maintaining oral hygiene in orthodontic patients, especially those with concerns about chlorhexidine's side effects.
- Research Article
2
- 10.3390/ijms26020852
- Jan 20, 2025
- International journal of molecular sciences
- Maki Nakamura + 4 more
Lactoferrin is a highly safe antibacterial protein found in the human body and in foods. Calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles with immobilized lactoferrin could therefore be useful as intraoral disinfectants for the prevention and treatment of dental infections because CaP is a mineral component of human teeth. In this study, we fabricated CaP nanoparticles with co-immobilized lactoferrin and heparin using a simple one-step coprecipitation process. Heparin, a negatively charged polysaccharide, was used as both an immobilizing agent for lactoferrin and a particle-dispersing agent. The immobilization efficiency for lactoferrin in the CaP nanoparticles depended on the concentrations of both the lactoferrin and heparin in the reaction solution and was over 90% under optimal conditions. The nanoparticles had a hydrodynamic diameter of about 150-200 nm and could be well dispersed in water, owing to their relatively large negative zeta potential derived from heparin. They were found to exhibit antibacterial activity against Actinomyces naeslundii, which is involved in the initial formation of dental plaque that consequently leads to dental caries and periodontal disease. These results indicate the potential of the proposed nanoparticles as intraoral disinfectants.
- Research Article
3
- 10.1088/1402-4896/ada40d
- Jan 10, 2025
- Physica Scripta
- Lian Kuang Lim + 4 more
Abstract S.mutans cells in oral cavity could adhere to surfaces of the teeth form the bacterial biofilm, strongly resist daily cleaning and brushing. The growth of the bacterial protected by the biofilm may lead to dental plaque formation and tooth decay. C old A tmospheric P lasma (CAP) generated from a capillary-guided corona discharge is investigated for the inactivation of Streptococcus mutans biofilm associated with dental caries. The plasma device was optimised to generate a 4-mm plasma plume while maintaining a temperature near to ambient. The heat generated was not susceptible to thermal damage for the biofilm, as well as the oral cavity. Through experimental evaluations, the gaseous plasma plume from the CAP with a treatment durations of up to 15 min were responsible in reducing the S. mutans biofilm. The highest removal was achieved after 15 min of CAP treatment. The results shown that a log-reduction of 3.08 of the cells in the S. mutans biofilm was killed during the treatment. The 10 min treatment demonstrated a high value of log reduction at 1.79 compared to the control well. The efficacy is found to be strongly correlated to treatment duration whereby at the minimum duration of 1 min treatment resulted a log reduction of 0.23. The outcomes of this research highlight CAP as a promising and safe approach for combating S. mutans biofilm. By offering a non-thermal alternative to traditional antimicrobial methods, CAP presents an opportunity to minimize harm to healthy tissues while effectively targeting biofilm.