Adhesion of <i>Streptococcus mutans</i> on Different Types of Orthodontic Brackets

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the adhesion ofStreptococcus mutans (S. mutans)on different types of orthodontic brackets commonly used in Thailand. Materials and Methods: The adhesion ofS. mutanson 7 types of orthodontic brackets (Clarity, Spirit MB, Inspire Ice, 3M, Tomy, Ormco and W&amp;H) was investigatedin vitro. The saliva-coated brackets were immersed in a flat-bottomed 96-well plate containingS. mutanssuspension (108CFU/ml) and incubated at 37 ̇C in 10% CO2and 100 rpm for 2 hours. The adhered bacterial cells were fixed by 99% methanol and stained with 0.5% crystal violet. The quantity of adhesion was determined by measuring optical density (OD) at 590 nm. The data were analyzed with Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Levene test, one way ANOVA and Games-Howell post hoc test. Results: Significantly higher bacteria adhesion was found on Clarity, Spirit MB, Tomy, Ormco and W&amp;H compared to Inspire Ice and 3M Gemini. However, there were no significant differences among the different types of bracket materials (ceramic, plastics and metal). Conclusion: The amount of bacteria adhesion was independent of the type of bracket materials. The size and shape of brackets also played an important role in the amount of adhesion of microorganism.