Examination of conditions influencing the proliferation and biofilm development of Streptococcus mutans on polystyrene microplates

The oral cavity, a dynamic ecosystem, provides an ideal habitat for diverse bacterial species, among which Streptococcus mutans emerges as a key contributor to tooth decay, particularly affecting individuals with temporary dental crowns. This study aimed to replicate oral cavity conditions relevant to those with temporary dental materials, investigating diverse parameters to unveil the optimal environment for S. mutans growth and biofilm formation on polystyrene plates. S. mutans were cultured under various conditions, including the addition of monosaccharides, disaccharides, or trisaccharides, under static or shaking conditions with or without oxygen. This study contributes valuable insights into understanding the intricate dynamics of S. mutans within oral environments, providing a foundation for targeted approaches in dental care and preventive strategies. Our findings demonstrated that the presence of sugars in culture medium supported the development of S. mutans. Notably, cultivating S. mutans in the presence of 2% sucrose under anaerobic conditions with mobility simulation fosters robust bacterial growth and biofilm formation on polystyrene plates.The results underscore the significance of creating experimental conditions that closely mimic the oral environment, enabling researchers to unravel essential aspects of bacterial behavior and enhance our understanding of effective strategies for oral health maintenance. The identified optimal conditions, specifically the influence of sucrose under anaerobic conditions, offer potential avenues for developing preventive interventions in dental care, with implications for those with temporary dental materials.