Ozone Gas Effect on Mineral Content of Dentin exposed to Streptococcus mutans Biofilm: An Energy-dispersive X-ray Evaluation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim This study aims to assess the effect of ozone gas on dentin exposed to Streptococcus mutans biofilm by evaluation of mineral content [log calcium-to-phosphorus (Ca/P)] using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. Materials and methods Five human third molars were sectioned into four slices of dentin and distributed in four groups: I – control (no treatment); II – ozone therapy; III – biofilm development; IV – ozone therapy followed by biofilm development. Mineral content (log Ca/P) was evaluated by EDX. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). Results Results showed that the mineral content of control group (I) was similar to ozone group (II), and was statistically higher than biofilm (III) and ozone + biofilm (IV). The lowest log Ca/P was determined in biofilm group (III). Conclusion It can be concluded that ozone gas did not grant preventive effects of demineralization by S. mutans biofilm on dentin surface. Clinical significance Ozone gas therapy may be an alternative noninvasive treatment aiming to reduce the levels of caries-associated microorganisms. This therapy may, thereby, be an alternative and/or complementary treatment strategy in preventive dentistry. How to cite this article Chaves RM, Estrela C, Cardoso PC, de JE Barata T, de Souza JB, de Torres EM, Estrela CRA, Magalhães APR, Lopes LG. Ozone Gas Effect on Mineral Content of Dentin exposed to Streptococcus mutans Biofilm: An Energy-dispersive X-ray Evaluation. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(4):265-269.