Bioadhesion in the oral cavity and approaches for biofilm management by surface modifications

Abstract

Background All soft and solid surface structures in the oral cavity are covered by the acquired pellicle followed by bacterial colonization. This applies for natural structures as well as for restorative or prosthetic materials; the adherent bacterial biofilm is associated among others with the development of caries, periodontal diseases, peri-implantitis, or denture-associated stomatitis. Accordingly, there is a considerable demand for novel materials and coatings that limit and modulate bacterial attachment and/or propagation of microorganisms. Objectives and findings The present paper depicts the current knowledge on the impact of different physicochemical surface characteristics on bioadsorption in the oral cavity. Furthermore, it was carved out which strategies were developed in dental research and general surface science to inhibit bacterial colonization and to delay biofilm formation by low-fouling or “easy-to-clean” surfaces. These include the modulation of physicochemical properties such as periodic topographies, roughness, surface free energy, or hardness. In recent years, a large emphasis was laid on micro- and nanostructured surfaces and on liquid repellent superhydrophic as well as superhydrophilic interfaces. Materials incorporating mobile or bound nanoparticles promoting bacteriostatic or bacteriotoxic properties were also used. Recently, chemically textured interfaces gained increasing interest and could represent promising solutions for innovative antibioadhesion interfaces. Due to the unique conditions in the oral cavity, mainly in vivo or in situ studies were considered in the review. Conclusion Despite many promising approaches for modulation of biofilm formation in the oral cavity, the ubiquitous phenomenon of bioadsorption and adhesion pellicle formation in the challenging oral milieu masks surface properties and therewith hampers low-fouling strategies. Clinical relevance Improved dental materials and surface coatings with easy-to-clean properties have the potential to improve oral health, but extensive and systematic research is required in this field to develop biocompatible and effective substances.

Antifungal and Surface Properties of Chitosan-Salts Modified PMMA Denture Base Material

“…[1,2]. The acquired oral pellicle covers tissues and dental materials in the oral cavity [2]. It functions, e.g., as a protective layer and contains In vitro studies showed the antifungal (Candida spp.)…”

“…In general, adhesion of proteins and microorganisms, e.g., Candida to biomaterials depends on several factors such as surface charge, surface free energy, polarity, hydrophobicity, morphology, and roughness, as well as the composition of biomaterials. [ 1 , 2 ]. The acquired oral pellicle covers tissues and dental materials in the oral cavity [ 2 ].…”

“…It functions, e.g., as a protective layer and contains antibacterial components. On the other hand, it promotes the adherence of microorganisms and biofilm formation and changes the surface physiochemical properties [ 2 ].…”

“…Oral biofilm is related to caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, peri-implantitis, and denture stomatitis. The modulation of its formation in the oral cavity is challenging [ 2 , 3 ]. Thus, different anti-adherent, antimicrobial and antibiofilm strategies to improve oral biomaterials are studied [ 3 , 4 ].…”

Bio-Interactive Zwitterionic Dental Biomaterials for Improving Biofilm Resistance: Characteristics and Applications

“…The deposition of plaque biofilms on the surfaces of dentures has been a troublesome factor that directly affects the local and systemic health of the patients [83]. Management strategies to prevent plaque biofilm formation on the acrylic surface of removable appliances have been attempted using two primary methods: (1) adding microbial-resistant filler components at the micro and nanoscale [23] and (2) improving the surface properties of the fabricated appliances by coatings [84,85]. The ZPs show the possibility of action via both of the above interventions, and multiple studies in recent years have detailed promising findings in this direction of work.…”