The Effects of Bioactive Glass-Containing Toothpastes on Streptococcus mutans Biofilm Removal from Contemporary Restorative Materials: An In Vitro Study

Background/Objectives: Dental biofilms are complex microbial communities that could lead to the formation of dental caries and other oral diseases. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effects of two commercially available toothpastes containing bioactive glass (BioMin F and Sensodyne Repair & Protection) on biofilm removal from five contemporary restorative dental materials and bovine enamel. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of bioactive glass-containing toothpastes on Streptococcus mutans viability and colonization on different restorative materials and bovine enamel. Methods: A total of 42 disc specimens representing five restorative dental materials and bovine enamel were incubated with Streptococcus mutans for 24 h to develop biofilms. After bacterial adhesion, specimens were brushed with toothpaste slurries (1:2 dilution) and distilled water (control). Biofilm viability and bacterial colonization were evaluated using the MTT assay and colony-forming unit (CFU) counts, respectively. Biofilm morphology on selected specimens was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Differences among groups were analyzed statistically using Tukey’s test. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed among the study groups following brushing (p < 0.05). EQUIA Forte HT (EF) demonstrated the lowest levels of S. mutans viability and colonization, whereas ACTIVA PRONTO (AP) exhibited the highest levels. Among the toothbrushing methods, BioMin F resulted in a greater reduction in bacterial viability and colony counts independent of the restorative materials. Combined analysis indicated that EF brushed with Sensodyne Repair & Protect yielded the lowest bacterial burden, whereas AP brushed with distilled water exhibited the highest. The results describing bacterial viability and colony counts also correlate with the SEM images taken. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, Sensodyne Repair & Protect was associated with lower S. mutans viability and colonization on most restorative materials, particularly EQUIA Forte HT.