Enhanced Biofilm Removal And Reduced Abrasion Of Denture Cleanser Tablets

This study assessed the effectiveness of a commercially available denture cleanser tablet in removing biofilm and limiting abrasion from partial dentures to prevent stomatitis and improve denture longevity in comparison with traditional brushing. Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilms were grown for 4 days on partial denture then stained with 1% PTA. Dentures were subjected to 1 (biofilm removal) or 90 (abrasion) days of cleaning using either a commercially available cleanser tablet (n = 3) or physical brushing (n = 3). Brushing was carried out with a novel setup that controlled orientation, load and brushing rate. High-resolution X-ray computed tomography (XCT) imaging was conducted using a Versa 520 Zeiss system, also combined with DVC analysis to assess shear strain. Areas of high and low strain, were chosen for SEM imaging to investigate possible abrasions on the surface. XCT imaging showed cleanser tablet treatment was significantly (p < 0.005) more effective at removing biofilm (85%), including hard-to-reach areas (e.g. interproximal spaces, 95%) than brushing (63 and 64%, respectively). Lower shear strain distribution (2,995 µε on average) was found following cleanser tablets treatment, compared to physical cleaning using a standard toothbrush (5,273 µε on average). No significant changes in surface roughness (Ra) were observed pre vs post treatment with cleanser tablets. SEM imaging showed a correlation between regions of high strain and apparent microdamage to the denture surface using brushing. Denture cleanser tablets significantly reduce biofilm burden and support denture longevity, highlighting their superior effectiveness for denture hygiene.