Candida albicans colonization on CAD-CAM denture resin surface

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Microbiology
• Dental Prosthetics

Background:

• Denture biofilm formation by Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a significant clinical issue.
• Understanding how different denture fabrication methods affect microbial colonization is crucial for improving oral hygiene and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare C. albicans biofilm formation on milled, 3D-printed, and conventional heat-polymerized polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) denture resin surfaces.
• To assess the impact of fabrication techniques on the virulence potential of C. albicans biofilms.

Main Methods:

• Three groups of denture resin samples (n=27) were fabricated: milled, 3D-printed, and heat-polymerized PMMA controls.
• C. albicans biofilms were grown on resin discs, incubated, detached, and quantified.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyzed biofilm morphology; non-parametric tests performed statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• The control (PMMA) group exhibited the lowest median biofilm attachment with high variability.
• Milled resin surfaces showed significantly higher biofilm formation with the least variation.
• 3D-printed resins had intermediate biofilm attachment, with SEM revealing increased hyphal growth compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Fabrication methods significantly influence C. albicans biofilm formation on denture resins.
• 3D-printed resins demonstrate increased hyphal growth, indicating a potential for higher virulence.
• Findings guide material selection for denture fabrication, especially for high-risk patient groups.