Evaluation of Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on fluoride-releasing materials used as pit and fissure sealants.

Abstract

This in vitro study evaluated fluoride release and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on four types of dental sealants: a giomer, resin-modified glass ionomer, compomer, and a fluoride-free composite (control). Discs were prepared as per the manufacturers' instructions, and they were placed in tubes containing ultrapure water. Fluoride release was measured after 2, 7, and 30 days using ion chromatography, and biofilm formation was analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A repeated-measures linear mixed model with log transformation and Bonferroni-corrected post-hoc tests was applied. The resin-modified glass ionomer showed the highest fluoride release, followed by the giomer, with increasing values over time. Compomer and the fluoride-free composite exhibited low, stable fluoride levels. SEM confirmed S. mutans biofilm on all materials. These findings highlight distinct fluoride release profiles and suggest that materials with higher fluoride release may offer improved long-term protection against cariogenic biofilm formation.