Removal of Oral Biofilm on an Implant Fixture by a Cavitating Jet

Abstract

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the effectiveness of the cavitating jet in removing biofilms from the rough surface of 3-dimensional structures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The optimal nozzle dimensions and injection conditions were identified by cavitation impact measurements. Biofilm was grown intraorally for 72 hours by 4 volunteers. The stained fixtures were assigned to different experimental groups. One comparison was performed between the cavitating jet and the water jet at 60 seconds. Additional comparisons were conducted among the time course experiments at 30, 60, and 180 seconds. After injection, the residual plaque biofilm (RPB) area was measured using a digital microscope. RESULTS: The total RPB of the cavitating jet was significantly lower than that of the water jet. Although there were no significant differences between the total RPB at 30 and 60 seconds, a significant difference was detected between 60 and 180 seconds. The RPB on the root sector was significantly lower than that on the crest sector at 60 and 180 seconds. CONCLUSION: The cavitating jet can effectively clean the biofilm formed on the rough surface of the implant screw, especially on the root sector.