Abstract
OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the effects of propolis nanoparticles (prpNPs) on antimicrobial property and shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic composite bonded to bovine enamel. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty bovine teeth were randomly divided into five groups (n=12). PrpNPs were prepared at concentrations of 0% (control), 1%, 2%, 5%, and 10% in Transbond XT composite to bond stainless steel brackets to the teeth. SBS between brackets and teeth was measured using a universal testing machine. After debonding, the adhesive remnant index (ARI) on bracket bases was measured. In the microbial test, composites with the aforementioned concentrations of prpNPs were cured in metal discs. The bacteria included Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis), and Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), and antimicrobial effects of prpNPs were investigated by anti-biofilm, disc agar diffusion and eluted component tests. RESULTS: The 10% prpNPs group showed the lowest SBS. Colony growths of S. mutans and S. sanguinis at all concentrations (except for 1%) was significantly lower than the control group. L. acidophilus colony growth was significantly reduced at 5% and 10% concentrations. Growth inhibition zone developed at 2%, 5%, and 10% concentrations for S. mutans and S. sanguinis. The lowest numbers of S. mutans and S. sanguinis colonies at all concentrations were observed on day 15. L. acidophilus colonies decreased significantly at all concentrations (except for 1%) until day 30. CONCLUSION: Nano propolis has a significant antimicrobial effect at 2% and 5% concentrations, and the SBS is maintained within the acceptable clinical range.