Organo-selenium-containing dental sealant inhibits bacterial biofilm

J Dent Res. 2013 May;92(5):461-6. doi: 10.1177/0022034513482141. Epub 2013 Mar 8.

Abstract

Oral bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus salivarius, contribute to tooth decay and plaque formation; therefore, it is essential to develop strategies to prevent dental caries and plaque formation. We recently showed that organo-selenium compounds covalently attached to different biomaterials inhibited bacterial biofilms. Our current study investigates the efficacy of an organo-selenium dental sealant (SeLECT-Defense(TM) sealant) in inhibiting S. mutans and S. salivarius biofilm formation in vitro. The organo-selenium was synthesized and covalently attached to dental sealant material via standard polymer chemistry. By colony-forming unit (CFU) assay and confocal microscopy, SeLECT-Defense(TM) sealant was found to completely inhibit the development of S. mutans and S. salivarius biofilms. To assess the durability of the anti-biofilm effect, we soaked the SeLECT-Defense(TM) sealant in PBS for 2 mos at 37°C and found that the biofilm-inhibitory effect was not diminished after soaking. To determine if organo-selenium inhibits bacterial growth under the sealant, we placed SeLECT-Defense sealant over a lawn of S. mutans. In contrast to a control sealant, SeLECT-Defense(TM) sealant completely inhibited the growth of S. mutans. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of SeLECT-Defense(TM) sealant against S. mutans and S. salivarius biofilms is very effective and durable.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Dental Plaque / microbiology
  • Dental Plaque / prevention & control*
  • Organoselenium Compounds / administration & dosage*
  • Organoselenium Compounds / chemistry
  • Pit and Fissure Sealants / chemistry*
  • Pit and Fissure Sealants / pharmacology
  • Streptococcus / drug effects*

Substances

  • Organoselenium Compounds
  • Pit and Fissure Sealants