Biofilm Formation on Dental Prostheses and Its Impact on Oral Microbial Load and Antibiotic Resistance

Abstract

This study investigated biofilm formation on dental prostheses and its relationship with microbial colonization and antibiotic resistance. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 patients wearing dental prostheses in Libya. The results showed that 28.3% of participants had plaque accumulation. Streptococcus species were the most common isolates (70%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (30%). A significant association was found between prosthetic material and biofilm formation, with zirconia prostheses showing higher susceptibility. Smoking, shorter duration of prosthesis use (<6 months), and increased number of prostheses were identified as independent risk factors. Antibiotic resistance analysis revealed significant resistance differences, particularly for penicillin, levofloxacin, norfloxacin, and imipenem, highlighting the impact of biofilm on antimicrobial tolerance. Biofilm formation is mainly influenced by prosthetic material and patient behavior rather than demographic factors. Proper material selection, early monitoring, and patient education, especially smoking cessation, are essential to reduce biofilm-related complications and antibiotic resistance.