Effect of surface roughness on accumulation of Streptococcus mutans in nanofilled tooth coloured restorative materials

The objective of the study was to asses the adhesion of Streptococcus mutans on nanofilled and microfilled composite resin and glass ionomer cement restorative materials. Glass ionomer cementsKetacTM N100 (nanofilled) and Fuji IITM LC (microfilled) and composite resinsFiltekTM Z350 (nanofilled) and FiltekTM Z250 (microhybrid) were packed in acrylic mould of 2 mm thickness and 5 mm diameter. All samples were light-cured and polished with Sof-Lex discs. All materials were cultured with the exponential phase of S. mutans cultivation. Surface roughness values were assessed using Atomic Force Microscope (AFM, Ambios, USA) at time intervals (7hrs, 24 hrs, 7 days, 14 days and 21 days). The morphology of S. mutans on materials was observed after 24 hour incubation of S. mutan on materials under Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM, Quanta FEG 450). Within groups, results showed that both nanofilled materials had lower surface roughness and less adhesion of S. mutans compared to microfilled materials. This study would enhance the clinical knowledge especially in aesthetic area and improve the longevity of the dental restoration