Exploring microbial interactions with denture resin surface and implications for plant based plaque control strategies: a narrative review

Background The importance of oral hygiene maintenance is of prime importance in dentulous and edentulous individuals. There are numerous types of bacteria which colonise in the oral cavity. Completely edentulous individuals have to follow proper hygiene procedures to keep their dentures germ free which can prevent numerous oral conditions. The main aim of this text was to briefly understand the interaction between microorganisms and denture, discuss the various methods of preventing plaque formation on dentures and highlight the natural antimicrobial agents in detail. Main body There are numerous factors which play a role in biofilm formation. Methods such as patient education, maintenance of denture hygiene and use of pharmacological methods have proven to effectively reduce or prevent the growth of microorganisms. Pharmacological agents can broadly be classified into natural and synthetic based on their source of origin. Based on their mechanism of action, they are classified as biocides, biocide releasing polymers and surface acting agents. The use of natural v/s synthetic products has always seen positives and negatives. Apart from the antimicrobial activity, the influence of these agents on the mechanical properties also remains an important aspect. This text highlights the various natural antimicrobial agents that can be incorporated in the dentures and the effect they have on the mechanical properties of the dentures. Conclusion The interaction between microorganisms and denture has been explored in detail. The various natural and synthetic antimicrobial agents have been enlisted following which the natural antimicrobials have been discussed in detail. The various natural products have shown marked antimicrobial nature however, their influence on the mechanical properties is lacking.