| dc.description.abstract | Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide, known to affect individuals at all ages. Caries is a multifactorial disease that is driven by demineralization of the tooth structure. Demineralization occurs in the presence of carbohydrate fermenting bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans, an acidic pH, a cariogenic diet, and impaired salivary function. S. mutans, and other oral bacteria, form, without removal, a biofilm that releases acids and demineralizes the surface enamel. A common form of caries prevention is dental sealants, which are a mechanical barrier placed on the occlusal surface of a tooth. Sealants are able to physically block cariogenic bacteria, like S. mutans, and reduce demineralization but are not able to eliminate bacteria from the tooth surface. The addition of an antibacterial component into sealant material, like silver nanoparticles, enhances the sealant’s ability to prevent caries. Silver nanoparticles have shown antibacterial properties throughout the dental field. Within each dental specialty, except dental hygiene, these nanoparticles have shown bactericidal properties while decreasing bacterial surface adhesion and upholding the properties of the original material it was incorporated into. Though the use of silver nanoparticles is widespread, it has not been incorporated into dental sealants, which are commonly placed by dental hygienists. The placement of silver nanoparticle incorporated sealants by dental hygienists would provide both preventive and therapeutic benefits to society thereby increasing access to care. | |
