Effect of Luteolin Nanoparticles on Bond Strength, Hardness, and Roughness of Tissue Conditioners: An In Vitro Study.

Abstract

Background: Tissue conditioners are widely used to manage traumatized oral tissues under dentures, but their mechanical limitations restrict long-term use. Luteolin, a flavonoid with known anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties, may enhance these materials when incorporated as nanoparticles (NPs).

Aim: To investigate the effect of incorporating luteolin NPs into an acrylic-based tissue conditioner on its tensile bond strength, surface hardness, and surface roughness.

Materials and methods: Sixty samples were divided into control (n = 15) and experimental groups (n = 45), with luteolin NPs incorporated at 1%, 2%, and 4% w/w concentrations. Tensile bond strength was tested using a universal testing machine, surface hardness via Shore A durometer, and surface roughness with a profilometer. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test (P ≤ 0.05).

Results: The 2% luteolin NP group demonstrated the highest tensile bond strength (0.28 MPa), lowest surface hardness (26.52), and surface roughness (2.20 µm). Incorporation at 2% and 4% significantly improved bond strength, while 1% and 2% significantly reduced surface hardness (P < 0.05). No statistically significant change in surface roughness was observed across groups.

Conclusion: Tissue conditioners modified with 2% luteolin NPs showed improved bonding and optimal surface properties without compromising material performance. These findings support the potential clinical utility of luteolin-enhanced tissue conditioners for managing traumatized oral tissues.