The oral cavity--a key system to understand substratum-dependent bioadhesion on solid surfaces in man

Area of Science:

• Life Sciences
• Biomaterials Research
• Oral Biology

Background:

• Bioadhesion to solid surfaces in aqueous solutions is a major challenge in life sciences and biomaterials.
• Biofilm formation in the oral cavity on dental materials and hard tissues exemplifies bioadhesion phenomena.
• The acquired pellicle, a proteinaceous layer, mediates interactions between surfaces, oral fluids, and microorganisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of bioadhesion and biofilm formation on various dental materials.
• To understand the role of the acquired pellicle in mediating bacterial colonization.
• To evaluate the suitability of the oral cavity as an in vivo model for studying bioadhesion and protein-surface interactions.

Main Methods:

• Observation of bioadhesion characteristics within the oral cavity.
• Comparison of in vitro and in situ pellicle formation on different dental materials (enamel, dentine, restorative materials, implants).
• Assessment of bacterial colonization on pellicle-coated surfaces under in vivo conditions.

Main Results:

• In situ pellicles formed on various dental materials appear similar, masking substrate properties.
• Bacterial colonization differs significantly on pellicle-coated surfaces in vivo.
• Low-energy surfaces are recommended for dental materials to reduce bacterial adhesion.

Conclusions:

• The oral cavity serves as an accessible in vivo model for studying bioadhesion and protein-surface interactions.
• Despite pellicle formation, factors like long-range forces influence bacterial colonization.
• Minimizing bacterial adhesion on dental materials through low-energy surface properties is crucial for oral health.