Which CAD/CAM materials may promote biofilm growth?

Researchers may have uncovered whether computer-aided design and manufacturing materials are susceptible to bacterial adhesion in the oral environment.

In a study, published in Odontology, the researchers prepared and divided 120 CAD/CAM specimens into six groups — including resin-based composite, polymethyl methacrylate, polyether ether ketone, zirconia polished, zirconia glazed and cobalt-chromium alloy. They then assigned 20 healthy patients to carry intraoral devices with six specimens in their mouths for 24 hours.

Following real-time polymerase chain reaction and scanning electron microscopy analyses of the specimens’ bacterial adhesion, the researchers found that the resin-based composite specimen demonstrated the least amount of bacteria, while the zirconia glazed and polyether ether ketone specimens had the greatest amounts of bacteria. The rest of the specimens fell between this range.

The researchers hope their findings may aid clinicians in selecting the most appropriate CAD/CAM materials to use during dental restorations.

Read more: Odontology

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