Incorporation of natural products that modify Streptococcus mutans virulence in restorative materials

Abstract

The polymerization contraction or the degradation of the adhesive systems may lead to marginal gaps at the resin-dentin interface. In these gaps some bacteria may adhere and form cariogenic biofilms on the resin-dentin superficies, promoting secondary caries. The secondary caries are one of the principal causes of changing dental restorations and the addition of compounds that decrease the cariogenicity of Streptococcus mutans, that is the main etiological agent of dental caries, may promote a decrease at development of secondary caries, increasing the longevity of composite restorations. The virulence of S. mutans resides in its abilities to adhere and form biofilms on tooth surfaces, to produce organic acids and to tolerate environmental stresses, particularly low pH. Among this hypothetical change of virulence of S. mutans it was originated the PhD linked project (FAPESP #2013/22823-9) from witch was proposed to incorporate natural products derivate from Brazilian propolis (separated or together) in commercial adhesives systems containing fluoride and alcohol as a solvent. Both natural products have a successful oral antimicrobial therapeutic determined in literature with better results when associated with fluoride. Based on the linked project (FAPESP #2013/22823-9), this project has the objective to incorporate the same natural products derivate from Brazilian propolis, that can change the virulence of S. mutans, producing a biofilm less cariogenic, to experimental composite resin and resin cement with the collaboration of Professor PhD Jack L. Ferracane. (AU)