ESR detection of ROS generated by TiO2 coated with fluoridated apatite.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Photocatalysis

Background:

• Microbial contamination of dentures is a clinical concern.
• Titanium dioxide (TiO(2)) photocatalysis generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) with antibacterial effects.
• Novel materials are needed to enhance denture hygiene and prevent microbial growth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the ROS generation of fluoridated apatite-coated titanium dioxide (FAp-TiO(2)) via photocatalysis.
• To evaluate the antifungal properties of acrylic resin containing FAp-TiO(2) against Candida albicans.
• To test the hypothesis that FAp-TiO(2) exhibits enhanced photocatalytic and antifungal effects.

Main Methods:

• Electron spin resonance (ESR) was used to detect hydroxyl radical (HO(*)) generation.
• Photocatalytic activity was assessed by measuring ROS production under ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation.
• Antifungal properties were determined by measuring the viability of Candida albicans on acrylic resin composites.

Main Results:

• Hydroxyl radical (HO(*)) generation was confirmed for TiO(2), hydroxyapatite-coated TiO(2) (HAp-TiO(2)), and FAp-TiO(2).
• FAp-TiO(2) exhibited significantly higher HO(*) generation compared to TiO(2) and HAp-TiO(2).
• Acrylic resin containing FAp-TiO(2) demonstrated lower Candida albicans viability, indicating superior antifungal activity.

Conclusions:

• FAp-TiO(2) possesses enhanced photocatalytic properties, leading to increased ROS generation.
• The FAp-TiO(2) composite shows significant potential for antifungal applications in denture materials.
• This research may pave the way for advanced denture-cleaning treatments and improved oral hygiene.