Influence of nanohydroxyapatite mouthwash on the growth of Candida albicans biofilm on milled denture surfaces: An in vitro study.

PURPOSE: There is a need for effective solutions for the persistent prevalence of denture stomatitis (DS) in denture-wearing populations. This study assessed the impact of nanohydroxyapatite (nanoHAP) nanoparticles on Candida albicans biofilm formation on milled polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) denture bases.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Acquired salivary pellicle was formed on disks milled from a prepolymerized PMMA puck. The disks were assigned to two groups, A (n = 18) and B (n = 18), and each group was further subdivided into three subgroups (6/subgroup), each treated with either Polident solution (antibacterial denture cleanser), nanoHAP mouthwash, or distilled water. Disks in group A subgroups were soaked in their respective treatment solutions for 8 h, followed by biofilm formation on the disk for 24 h. Disks in group B subgroups had C. albicans biofilm formed on them for 24 h, followed by soaking in their respective treatment solutions for 8 h. Biofilm thickness, biomass, and live/dead cell ratio were determined using a confocal laser scanning microscope. Biofilm morphology was examined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer multiple comparisons (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

In group A, nanoHAP mouthwash displayed significant anti-adhesive properties. In group B, biofilm biomass and thickness significantly decreased (p < 0.05), with the nanoHAP showing the most substantial reduction in existing biofilm compared to other solutions, but it did not significantly affect cell viability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the efficacy of nanoHAP mouthwash in inhibiting C. albicans biofilm formation when used as a storage medium for acrylic dentures. It suggests its potential clinical application for preventing denture stomatitis in patients.