Zinc-modified phosphate-based glass micro-filler improves Candida albicans resistance of auto-polymerized acrylic resin without altering mechanical performance

Abstract

Colonization of auto-polymerized acrylic resin by pathogenic Candida albicans is a common problem for denture users. In this study, zinc-modified phosphate-based glass was introduced into an auto-polymerized acrylic resin at concentrations of 3, 5, and 7 wt.%. The mechanical properties (flexural strength, elastic modulus, microhardness, and contact angle) and surface morphology of the resultant material were investigated, and the antimicrobial effect on C. albicans was examined. The mechanical properties slightly differed between the control and zinc-modified phosphate-based glass samples (p > 0.05); however, the number of C. albicans colony-forming units was significantly lower in the control (p < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed that C. albicans tended not to adhere to the material. Thus, the novel materials retained the advantageous mechanical properties of unaltered acrylic resins while simultaneously exhibiting a strong antimicrobial effect in vitro.