Adherence of Streptococcus mutans to orthodontic band cements

Background:  The aim of this study was to quantitatively determine the adherence of Streptococcus mutans to orthodontic band cements. Methods:  Two hundred and ten blocks of seven different band cements for orthodontic prescription were made using a Teflon mould (4 × 4 × 1 mm). The obtained blocks were slightly polished and cleansed ultrasonically. Certified S. mutans ATCC 25175 were cultured with conventional methods for growth in Petri dishes and trypticase soy broth. Quantitative analysis was carried out with radioactive markers to codify the bacteria (3H). Subsequently, a combustion system was used to capture the residues, the radioactivity of the samples was measured, and the values recorded in disintegrations per minute (dpm). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a Scheffe test for multiple comparisons was realized with a significance level of ≤0.05. Results:  Significant differences were found among different band cement materials (p < 0.001). Two band cement materials showed statistically lower values than the others (Transbond Plus Band Cem and Ketac Cem). In contrast, GC Fuji Ortho Band presented the highest adherence of S. mutans. Conclusions:  Among the cements evaluated, Transbond Plus Band Cem and Ketac Cem showed lower adherence of S. mutans.