In vitro evaluation of Candida albicans adherence to soft denture-lining materials

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Mycology
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Candida albicans is a common cause of denture stomatitis.
• Soft denture liners can harbor microbial biofilms.
• Understanding fungal adherence is crucial for preventing oral infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate Candida albicans adherence to various soft denture-lining materials.
• To determine the influence of material surface properties on fungal adhesion.
• To investigate the role of salivary pellicle in Candida albicans adherence.

Main Methods:

• In vitro assessment of Candida albicans adherence to seven commercial soft denture-lining materials.
• Utilized BCA protein assay to quantify yeast cell adherence.
• Correlated adherence with material hydrophobicity and pellicle presence.

Main Results:

• A strong correlation was found between protein content and yeast cell numbers (r = 0.993).
• Candida albicans adherence to bare surfaces correlated with material hydrophobicity (r = 0.905).
• Adherence to saliva-coated surfaces did not correlate with hydrophobicity, indicating other factors are involved.

Conclusions:

• Material hydrophobicity is a significant factor for Candida albicans adherence to uncoated soft denture liners.
• Non-hydrophobic factors play a crucial role in fungal adherence to pellicle-coated denture materials.
• The findings support the development of improved denture liners to minimize Candida albicans colonization.