Fábio Correia Sampaio

Use of Punica granatum as an antifungal agent against candidosis associated with denture stomatitis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a gel containing the extract of Punica granatum as an antifungal agent against candidosis associated with denture stomatitis. Sixty patients with denture stomatitis confirmed by clinical and mycologic examination were selected. The patients were randomly allocated in two groups of 30 individuals each according to the medication prescribed: group A used miconazole (Daktarin® gel oral) and group B used a gel of P. granatum Linné (pomegranate). Both groups used the medicines three times per day for 15 days. Forty‐eight hours after finishing the treatment the patients were re‐examined and a second set of samples was collected for mycologic examination. The medicines were evaluated for their clinical response and negativity for Candida. The clinical results showed a satisfactory and regular response in 27 and 21 subjects of groups A and B, respectively. Negativity of yeasts was observed in 25 subjects of group A and 23 of group B. It can be concluded that the extract of P. granatum may be used as a topical antifungal agent for the treatment of candidosis associated with denture stomatitis.

Minimum inhibitory concentration of adherence of Punica granatum Linn (pomegranate) gel against S. mutans, S. mitis and C. albicans

The purpose of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial effect of a Punica granatum Linn (pomegranate) phytotherapeutic gel and miconazole (Daktarin oral gel) against three standard streptococci strains (mutans ATCC 25175, sanguis ATCC 10577 and mitis ATCC 9811), S. mutans clinically isolated and Candida albicans either alone or in association. The effect of minimum inhibitory concentrations of the gels on the adherence of these microorganisms to glass was assessed in the presence of 5% sucrose, using increasing and doubled concentrations of the diluted solution of the gels ranging from 1:1 to 1:1024. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of adherence of Punica granatum L. gel against the test organisms were: 1:16 for S. mutans (ATCC), S. mutans (CI) and S. sanguis; 1:128 for S. mitis and 1:64 for C. albicans. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of adherence of miconazole against the same organisms were: 1:512, 1:64, 1:4, 1:128 and 1:16, respectively. In experiments with three and four associated microorganisms, the Punica granatum L. gel had greater efficiency in inhibiting microbial adherence than the miconazole. The results of this study suggest that this phytotherapeutic agent might be used in the control of adherence of different microorganisms in the oral cavity.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of Caesalpinia ferrea Martius fruits against oral pathogens

AIM In the Amazon region of Brazil, the fruits of Caesalpinia ferrea Martius (Brazilian ironwood) are widely used as an antimicrobial and healing medicine in many situations including oral infections. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Caesalpinia ferrea Martius fruit extract against oral pathogens. MATERIALS AND METHODS Polyphenols estimation and spectral analysis ((1)H NMR) of the methanol extract were carried out. The microorganisms Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus oralis and Lactobacillus casei were tested using the microdilution method for planktonic cells (MIC) and a multispecies biofilm model. Chlorhexidine was used as positive control. RESULTS Polyphenols in the extract were estimated at 7.3% and (1)H NMR analysis revealed hydroxy phenols and methoxilated compounds. MIC values for Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus oralis and Lactobacillus casei were 25.0, 40.0, 66.0, 100.0, 66.0 microg/mL, respectively. For the biofilm assay, chlorhexidine and plant extract showed no growth at 10(-4) and 10(-5) microbial dilution, respectively. At 10(-4) and 10(-5) the growth values (mean+/-SD) of the negative controls (DMSO and saline solution) for Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sp. and Candida albicans were 8.1+/-0.7, 7.0+/-0.6 and 5.9+/-0.9 x 10(6)CFU, respectively. CONCLUSION Caesalpinia ferrea fruit extract can inhibit in vitro growth of oral pathogens in planktonic and biofilm models supporting its use for oral infections.

Fingernail Fluoride: A Method for Monitoring Fluoride Exposure

This work was based on the hypothesis that fingernail clippings can be used as a biomarker for the subchronic exposure to fluoride. The results provide data on factors that may affect the concentration of fluoride in fingernail clippings as determined with the electrode following HMDS–facilitated diffusion. The following variables had only minor or no effects on the concentrations: (1) the surface area of the clippings (intact, minced or filed into powder) that were placed into the diffusion dishes; (2) soaking in deionized water for up to 6 h; (3) soaking in fluoridated water (1.0 ppm) for 2 h, and (4) removal of the organic material of nails by dry ashing. Fingernail fluoride concentrations were approximately 50% higher than those in toenails. A 1–month period of increased fluoride intake by one of the authors resulted in significant increases in fingernail fluoride concentrations after a lag time of approximately 3.5 months. The fluoride concentrations in fingernail clippings obtained from three groups of Brazilian children were directly related to the concentrations in the drinking water (0.1, 1.6 or 2.3 ppm). The results indicate that: (1) HMDS–facilitated diffusion completely separates fluoride from intact nail clippings, so the need for ashing or other preparative methods is obviated; (2) fingernail fluoride is derived mainly from the systemic circulation, and (3) fluoride intake is reflected by the concentrations in fingernails.

Efeito antibacteriano e antiaderente in vitro do extrato da Punica granatum Linn. sobre microrganismos do biofilme dental

Nesta pesquisa foi avaliada a atividade antimicrobiana e a capacidade de inibicao da sintese de glucano in vitro do extrato da casca do fruto da roma (Punica granatum Linn.) sobre linhagens bacterianas de Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguis, Streptococcus sobrinus e Lactobacillus casei. Os ensaios foram realizados pelas tecnicas de agar-difusao em placas para determinacao da Concentracao Inibitoria Minima (CIM) e tecnica dos tubos inclinados para determinacao da Concentracao Inibitoria Minima de Aderencia (CIMA) ao vidro, na presenca de 5% de sacarose. Os mesmos procedimentos foram realizados com a clorexidina a 0,12%. As CIMs (mg/mL) do extrato da P. granatum frente ao S. mitis, S. mutans, S. sanguis, S. sobrinus e L. casei foram 1:32, 1:8, 1:8, 1:512, e 1:128, respectivamente. Para as CIMAs o extrato da P. granatum mostrou resultados melhores que a clorexidina, exceto para o S. mutans com achados semelhantes na diluicao de 1:256. Os resultados mostram a potencialidade da P. granatum na inibicao do crescimento bacteriano e sintese de glucano representada pela aderencia ao vidro, sugerindo o emprego do extrato da roma, como meio alternativo, no controle desses microrganismos na formacao do biofilme.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of solution blow spun poly(lactic acid)/polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers loaded with Copaiba (Copaifera sp.) oil.

In this study poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) micro- and nanofiber mats loaded with Copaiba (Copaifera sp.) oil were produced by solution blow spinning (SBS). The Copaiba (Copaifera sp.) oil was characterized by gas chromatography (GC). Neat PLA and four PLA/PVP blends containing 20% (wt.%) oil were spun and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and by studying the surface contact angle, in vitro release rate, and antimicrobial activity. All compositions evaluated were able to produce continuous and smooth fibers by SBS. The addition of PVP increased fiber diameter, and decreased the surface contact angle. GC analysis demonstrated that the main component of the Copaiba oil was β-caryophyllene, a known antimicrobial agent. In vitro release tests of Copaiba oil volatiles demonstrated a higher release rate in fibers containing PVP. Fiber mats made from blends containing higher amounts of PVP had greater antimicrobial action against Staphylococcus aureus. The results confirm the potential of the fiber mats for use in controlled drug release and could lead to promising applications in the biomedical field.

Therapeutic effect of two fluoride varnishes on white spot lesions: a randomized clinical trial

The aim of this randomized clinical trial study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of two varnish formulations (G1 = 5% NaF, G2 = 6% NaF + 6% CaF(2)) on the remineralization of white spot lesions (WSL). The sample was composed of 15 (7- to 12-year-old) children with 45 active WSL in anterior permanent teeth. The children were randomly divided into two groups providing 22 lesions for G1 and 23 for G2. The children were submitted to weekly varnish applications 4 times. The WSL were evaluated twice: baseline and on week 4. Maximum lesion dimensions (mesiodistal and incisogingival) were measured in millimeters and classified in four grades of size. WSL were also assessed regarding lesion activity by one calibrated examiner. The Pearson chi-square and Fishers exact tests were used (P < 0.01). WSL reductions were observed in both varnish groups (Chi-square = 0.15, d.f. = 1, P = 0.90), and with similar magnitude (in mm): 1.19 and 1.29 for G1 and G2, respectively. Thirty-six WSL (15 in G1 and 21 in G2) were classified as inactive on week 4, reaching an overall value of 80%. No difference was observed between G1 and G2 regarding activity scores (Fishers exact test, p > 0.01). It was concluded that after 4 applications the two varnish formulations tested produced similar clinical effects, indicating the reduction and the control of carious activity in most WSL.

Flow rate, pH and calcium concentration of saliva of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Alterations in salivary parameters may increase the caries risk in diabetic children, but, contradictory data on this issue have been reported. The aims of this study were to compare salivary parameters (flow rate, pH and calcium concentration) between healthy and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) individuals. The sample consisted of 7- to 18-year-old individuals divided into two groups: 30 subjects with T1DM (group A) and 30 healthy control subjects (group B). Fasting glucose levels were determined. Unstimulated and stimulated saliva was collected. The pH of unstimulated saliva was measured with paper strips and an electrode. Calcium concentrations in stimulated saliva were determined with a selective electrode. Group A individuals had inadequate blood glucose control (HbA(1C) >9%), with means +/- SD unstimulated salivary flow rate of 0.15 +/- 0.1 mL/min compared to 0.36 +/- 0.2 mL/min for group B (P < 0.01). Stimulated salivary flow rate was similar by both groups and above 2.0 mL/min. Saliva pH was 6.0 +/- 0.8 for group A and significantly different from 7.0 +/- 0.6 for group B (P < 0.01). Salivary calcium was 14.7 +/- 8.1 mg/L for group A and significantly higher than 9.9 +/- 6.4 mg/L for group B (P < 0.01). Except for elevated calcium concentrations in saliva, salivary parameters favoring caries such as low saliva pH and unstimulated salivary flow rate were observed in T1DM individuals.

A survey on education in cariology for undergraduate dental students in Europe

The aim of the survey was to collect relevant information about education in cariology for dental undergraduate students in Europe. The ORCA/ADEE cariology curriculum group prepared a questionnaire that was mailed in 2009 to 179 European dental schools. One hundred and twenty-three dental schools (72%) from 32 countries completed and returned the questionnaires. In most of these schools, education in cariology is delivered by at least two different units. The units mainly involved are Paediatric Dentistry, Conservative Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry or Operative Dentistry. Theoretical education in cariology is delivered by practically all responding dental schools, and in 96% of these schools, it starts within the first 3 years. Pre-clinical exercises are offered by 98% of the schools starting mainly in the third or fourth year. In 97% of the schools, clinical exercises are carried out, and this occurs mainly in the fourth and fifth year. In nearly all dental schools (88%), education in cariology comprises not only caries but also dental erosion and non-erosive wear. The vast majority of the responding dental schools (89%) supported the idea of developing a European Core Curriculum in Cariology.

Dental caries and treatment needs among indigenous people of the Potiguara Indian reservation in Brazil

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the caries prevalence and treatment needs of Brazilian indigenous residents on an Indian reservation. METHODS This cross-sectional study comprised 1 461 individuals of ages 18-36 months and 5, 12, 15-19, 35-44, and 65-74 years living in the Potiguara Indian villages of Brazil. Decayed, missing, or filled permanent teeth (DMFT) and deciduous teeth (dmft) were determined by calibrated examiners using the methodology recommended by the World Health Organization. Treatment needs were assessed with the guidelines of the 2003 Brazilian Oral Health Survey. RESULTS Means + or - standard deviations (SD) for dmft of 18- to 36-month-old and 5-year-old children were 2.5 + or - 3.7 and 5.8 + or - 4.3, respectively. For the age groups 12, 15-19, 35-44, and 65-74 years, mean + or - SD values of DMFT were 3.6 + or - 3.1, 7.1 + or - 4.9, 16.4 + or - 7.5, and 22.8 + or - 8.6. The mean + or - SD number of deciduous teeth requiring treatment varied from 2.4 + or - 3.5 to 5.0 + or - 4.0 in the 18- to 36-month and 5-year-old age groups, respectively. Among adolescents and adults, it was observed that on average at least three permanent teeth required dental treatment such as fillings, crowns, endodontic treatment, and extractions. CONCLUSIONS High prevalence of caries and many teeth needing treatment were observed in all age groups of the Potiguara Indians.