In vivo Microbial Diversity Analysis on Different Surfaces of Dental Restorative Materials via 16S rDNA Sequencing

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to provide precise material selection guidance for proper clinical restoration and treatment of plaque-related oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal diseases. MATERIAL/METHODS: Four groups (n=24) of restorative material sheets (n=24) were prepared using 3M Z350 composite resin (ZR), zinc phosphate cement (ZPC), glass-ionomer (GI), and ICON permeable resin (IPR). Six volunteers wore a plaque-collection device equipped with the 4 restorative material sheets for 48 hours. Plaque samples were collected, and Miseq sequencing was applied to obtain template DNA fragments for microbial diversity analysis. The data were analyzed with nonparametric tests. RESULTS: The microbial diversity on the ZPC surface was significantly lower than that on GI and IPR surfaces. The abundance of Firmicutes and Streptococcus on the ZPC surface was significantly higher than on the surfaces of GI and IPR. In contrast, the abundance of Porphyromonas on the surface of ZPC was significantly lower than that on GI and IPR surfaces. (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study might serve as a basis for material selection under different oral microbial conditions to provide more accurate treatments and restorative procedures in the oral cavity.