Developing a bioactive glass coated dental floss: antibacterial and mechanical evaluations

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Science
• Nanotechnology in Dentistry

Background:

• Dental floss is a primary tool for interdental cleaning.
• Antimicrobial coatings can enhance the efficacy of dental floss.
• Chitosan and mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNs) are biocompatible materials with potential antimicrobial properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antimicrobial and mechanical properties of dental floss coated with chitosan or chitosan + MBGNs.
• To evaluate the potential of these novel floss materials for improving oral health.

Main Methods:

• Commercial dental floss was coated with chitosan or a combination of chitosan and MBGNs.
• Antimicrobial efficacy was tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria at 3-hour and 24-hour intervals.
• Mechanical properties, specifically tensile strength, were measured to assess durability.

Main Results:

• The coated dental floss demonstrated significant inhibition of bacterial growth after 24 hours.
• Antimicrobial effects were minimal at the 3-hour time point.
• The addition of chitosan and MBGNs coatings notably improved the tensile strength of the dental floss, enhancing its durability.

Conclusions:

• Dental floss coated with chitosan and MBGNs exhibits promising antimicrobial and mechanical properties.
• These enhanced floss materials have the potential to improve oral hygiene practices.
• Further research into these composite materials is warranted to explore their full potential in promoting oral health.