Evaluation of the antimicrobial properties of an experimental orthodontic resin containing Sodium Trimetaphosphate

• Grant number: 24/23030-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Orthodontics
• Principal Investigator: Diego Girotto Bussaneli
• Grantee: Beatriz Martins Marsola
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FOAr). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Although mechanical biofilm control is an effective and low-cost strategy for preventing dental caries and periodontal diseases, patients undergoing orthodontic treatment may face challenges in adequately removing biofilm, leading to a higher prevalence of white spot lesions during treatment. Sodium Trimetaphosphate (TMP) is known for its antimicrobial properties and its ability to facilitate enamel remineralization, potentially offering an effective solution to minimize the adverse effects of orthodontic treatment when incorporated into the composite resin used for attachments. This study aims to evaluate the effect of incorporating 7% and 14% TMP nanoparticles on the antimicrobial properties of an orthodontic resin. The null hypothesis is that this incorporation does not alter the resin's antimicrobial properties. Experimental orthodontic composites modified with 7% and 14% TMP will be prepared using Filtek Z350 orthodontic resin. Specimens will be fabricated and coated with Streptococcus mutans biofilms. Colony-forming unit (CFU) counts and bacterial viability assays using Live/Dead kits, along with total bacterial biomass assessments, will be conducted. The dependent variables will include CFU count, total biomass, and the distribution of live/dead bacteria, while the type of orthodontic resin will be the independent variable. Data will be statistically analyzed with a 5% significance level. This study seeks to address the gap in knowledge regarding the antimicrobial activity of orthodontic resins containing TMP nanoparticles, offering a potentially effective alternative for controlling white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment