The early bacterial colonization of acrylic palates in man

Adhesive tape applied to the fitting surface was used to study the early colonization of acrylic palates in six subjects. Streptococci were major constituents of the plaque accumulated on the tape over the first 3 days. Bacterial colonization of the tape discs was selective in that dextran-producing streptococci constituted a greater proportion of the total streptococcal count after 15 min compared with that of the initial sample and saliva, while the converse was true for Streptococcus salivarius. Scanning electron microscopy showed that denture plaque development started in grooves and depressions on the surface of the tape, and became more extensive with time. Comparison of the colonization of tape and acrylic discs in one individual demonstrated that the tape was a suitable model for in vivo colonization of dentures or orthodontic appliances.