Abstract:
Objectives: The aim of this study was to synthesize visible light activated titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles
using titanium nitride (TiN) by solution route to determine its antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus when
combined with heat cure polymethyl methacrylate denture base resins (PMMA) in three different combinations.
Methods: Visible light activated as-prepared TiO2 photocatalyst was synthesized by peroxide based solution route
technique using TiN. Part of the as-prepared TiO2 was annealed and anatase form was obtained. Physical properties
of the material were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X–
ray spectroscopy (EDAX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). TiO2 (3 w%, 5 w%)-PMMA composite
samples (incorporated, precuring or post-curing coating) and unblended acrylic samples were prepared. They were
placed in saline and exposed to light for 1 day, 1 week, 1month, 3 months and 6 months in a halogen light system
specially fabricated for this study. Then the samples were subjected to microbiological tests to determine the inhibitory
activity against S. aureus. Based on visible turbidity changes in the broth containing samples the antibacterial activity
was reported. Statistical analysis of the data was done to interprete the results.
Results: XRD, SEM, EDAX and FTIR showed better patterns with anatase form. This material showed consistent
and reliable inhibitory activity in all forms when combined with PMMA in three different combinations. The best results
were achieved at 3 w% concentration of TiO2.
Conclusion: 3 w% of anatase TiO2 upon incorporation and postcuring coating with PMMA shows promising
inhibitory activity against S.aureus.
Clinical significance: To decrease the load of oral microflora on dentures by utilising visible light activated TiO2
photocatalyst especially in elderly and handicapped denture wearers.
