Comparative analysis of biofilm levels in complete upper and lower dentures after brushing associated with specific denture paste and neutral soap.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to compare and correlate biofilm levels in complete upper and lower prosthesis after brushing, associated with specific paste and soap, by means of computerised methodology.


METHODS
Forty-five complete denture wearers were selected and instructed to brush their prostheses (Soft Oral B 40) three times a day for 3 weeks with water (Control), specific paste for complete dentures (Corega Brite) (Experiment 1) and neutral soap (Experiment 2). The study was based on a cross-over model and a wash-out period was not included. For biofilm quantification, the internal surfaces were dyed (neutral red 1%), photographed (Canon EOS Digital) and the disclosed biofilm was measured with the Image Tool 2.0 software. The products were assessed by means of a questionnaire regarding their hygiene properties and acceptance.


RESULTS
The variance analysis indicated that the lower prostheses exhibited a mean biofilm percentage, significantly higher than the upper prostheses and that brushing with paste (Experiment 1) was more effective than soap (Experiment 2) and, in turn, this was more effective than water (Control). There was a high biofilm correlation (Pearson correlation) between both prostheses. Both products were well accepted by the patients, but the most favoured one was the paste.


CONCLUSIONS
This was effective in controlling the biofilm and can be used preventatively in the maintenance of oral health by wearers of complete dentures. This is important where the lower prosthesis can harbour microorganisms which may act as a reservoir for other areas of the mouth and thus enhance the importance of proper hygiene.
Salles
Antônio Eduardo S
AE
Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, Ribeirão Preto School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. helenpar@forp.usp.br
Macedo
Leandro D
LD
Fernandes
Roseana A G
RA
Silva-Lovato
Cláudia H
CH
Paranhos
Helena de F O
Hde F
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D018441:Biofilms; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D003820:Denture Cleansers; D003826:Denture, Complete, Lower / Q000382:microbiology*; D003827:Denture, Complete, Upper / Q000382:microbiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012915:Soaps; D014099:Toothbrushing
D003820:Denture Cleansers; D012915:Soaps