Effect of Low Amperage Electric Current on Staphylococcus Aureus—Strategy for Combating Bacterial Biofilms Formation on Dental Implants in Cystic Fibrosis Patients, In Vitro Study

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that affects multiple organs and systems. The oral cavity can serve as a substantial source of bacteria, causing respiratory infections and diseases which continue to dictate the clinical course of the disease and prognosis in patients with CF. Low voltage and electric current could effectively kill bacteria and biofilms, and the activity of milliampere currents could be used as an effective method of fighting bacteria. This study evaluated the effect of low amperage electric current on the formation of Staphylococcus aureus biofilms on dental implants such as titanium and zirconium in patients with cystic fibrosis. Our studies suggest that a constant electric current at a low intensity of 1 mA and 10 mA is inhibiting bacterial adhesion, detaching biofilm-forming bacteria on biomaterials used in dental implants such as titanium and zirconium, and destroying bacterial cells of Staphylococcus aureus strains. In addition, we observed the selection of an appropriate biomaterial for implants in people affected by chronic diseases, such as CF, should be carefully planned.