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Influence of Gutta-Percha Surface on Enterococcus faecalis Initial Adhesion In Vitro: An Atomic Force Microscopy
Allan Victor Ribeiro1, Evelyn Giuliana Velásquez-Espedilla2, Mirela Cesar de Barros2
1Department of Physics, Federal Institute of São Paulo, Birigui CEP 16201-407, SP, Brazil.
Life (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 25, 2023
Summary
Plasticizing gutta-percha (GP) reduces surface irregularities, leading to less initial adhesion and accumulation of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis). This finding highlights the importance of surface topography in bacterial contamination.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Microbiology
- Dental Materials
Background:
- The surface topography of dental materials can influence bacterial adhesion.
- Gutta-percha (GP) is a primary root canal filling material, and its surface characteristics may impact bacterial colonization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate how the surface topography of gutta-percha cones and plasticized gutta-percha disks affects the initial adhesion of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis).
Main Methods:
- Gutta-percha cones (Tanari and Dentsply) were prepared as cones or thermoplasticized disks.
- Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was used to analyze surface topography, roughness, and waviness.
- Specimens were contaminated with E. faecalis (ATCC 29212) to assess bacterial accumulation.
Main Results:
- Gutta-percha cones exhibited rougher surfaces and higher waviness compared to plasticized disks, particularly the Dentsply brand.
- Greater bacterial accumulation of E. faecalis occurred on gutta-percha cones, especially in surface valleys.
- After contamination, surfaces became smoother and more homogeneous, with no significant differences between disk and cone brands.
Conclusions:
- The micro and nanoscale surface topography of gutta-percha significantly influences initial Enterococcus faecalis adhesion.
- Rougher surfaces and waviness on gutta-percha cones promote greater bacterial contamination.
- Plasticization of gutta-percha is recommended to reduce surface irregularities and minimize bacterial retention.
