Efficacy of Disinfectants Against Gram-Positive Bacteria Found on Thermoplastic Retainers

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.

Antimicrobial Activity of Various Disinfectants to Clean Thermoplastic Polymeric Appliances in Orthodontics

“…The materials used in the literature significantly vary. Although four articles referred to the same manufacturer, Essix material [ 26 , 31 , 33 , 34 ], each of them inspected different types of Essix material, ranging from Essix type A, Essix type C+, and Essix ACE. Furthermore, only two studies focused on clear aligners, Invisalign [ 28 , 32 ], using polyurethane material, a distinguishing material apart from the previous material.…”

“…Another interesting aspect is that even the same type of effervescent tablet can be used for different time lengths. For instance, Corega ® can be used for either 5 or 15 min [ 26 , 27 ] with the same frequency of immersion, once daily, except in the CHX mouthwash group, where once every 4 days is recommended, according to Ismah et al [ 34 ].…”

“…Two studies tried to identify different types of microorganisms [ 26 , 30 ]. An antimicrobial assessment can be carried out either with direct techniques such as a colony count [ 27 , 29 , 30 , 31 , 34 ] or an indirect technique, namely an optical density measurement using a microplate reader.…”