Antimicrobial Potential Of Pycnogenol® Coated Orthodontic Modules Against Oral Pathogens: An Invitro Study

Introduction: Fixed orthodontic treatment increases the oral microbial count, leading to a series of oral health problem. Incorporating products containing antimicrobial effects into the orthodontic materials reduces the escalation of harmful effects of these pathogens. Pycnogenol ®, an extract from the bark of French pine tree (Pinus pinaster Aiton) is a major constituent of over 1000 dietary supplements and variety of other products worldwide, used for treating various illness. However, its potential in orthodontics remains to be explored. Materials and Methods: Pycnogenol ® extract was prepared and coated onto the orthodontic modules. Drug loading and drug release kinetics was studied using UV visual spectrometry. The coated modules were subjected to antimicrobial testing against common oral pathogens. SEM imaging was done to analyse the surface coating of the orthodontic modules. Results: The antimicrobial activity for S. mutans, E. coli, and S. aureus were studied at 1, 8, and 24 hours. The mean rank obtained from MIC showed that there is a highly significant difference between the bacterial groups in all the time duration. Direct agar diffusion test showed profound zone of inhibition of 20 mm for S. mutans. Additionally, Pycnogenol ® coated modules also demonstrates antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Conclusion: Increased microbial adhesion to orthodontic appliances and modules causes a sequelae of oral health problems. Pycnogenol® is a potent antioxidant possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The study exhibits the release of the Pycnogenol® from the modules after coating and the coated modules also demonstrate antimicrobial activity.