Effects of Orthodontic Bonding Containing TiO2 and ZnO Nanoparticles on Prevention of White Spot Lesions: an In Vitro Study

Abstract

Demineralization is a common problem following orthodontic treatments. Today using antibacterial nanoparticles in preventing white spot lesions is being discussed. Given that ZnO and TiO2 nanoparticles have direct antibacterial known properties, this study aims to evaluate these nanoparticles' antibacterial effects in orthodontic bondings' composition on preventing white spot lesions. In this in vitro experimental study, 43 sound human premolar teeth were divided into five groups according to the adhesive utilized for bracket bonding: None group consisting of 12 teeth bonded with Transbond XT, TiO2 Group consisting of 12 teeth with Transbond XT and TiO2 nanoparticles, ZnO group consisting of 12 teeth with Transbond XT and ZnO nanoparticles, a positive control group consisting of 5 teeth without brackets and negative control groups consisting of 5 teeth in a sterile medium. All teeth were stored in a medium consisting of 1cc brain heart infusion (BHI) + sucrose 1%+ 0.5 McFarland Streptococcus mutans bacteria for 28 days. The medium was replaced every 48 hours. All the samples were examined every week for 4 weeks using DIAGNOdent and photography to detect white spots. The results of this study revealed that adding TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles to Transbond XT bonding caused a decrease in enamel lesions occurrence and incidence of white spots (p value= 0.00). The results did not reveal significant differences between TiO2 and ZnO groups. Novel bonding agents containing TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles represent promising candidates in combating enamel white spot lesions.