Advancing Biofilm Removal: Evaluating Electrolytic Methods for Decontaminating Dental Implants In Vitro

Purpose This study evaluated the decontaminating efficacy of two electrolytic cleaning systems on titanium implants contaminated with multispecies biofilm, compared to conventional treatments like 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) or local antibiotics (tetracycline), with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as a negative control. Materials and Methods A 14-species oral microbial community, developed using a bioreactor system, was used to grow biofilms on dental implant surfaces. Implants were then treated with two electrolytic systems, CHX, tetracycline, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). After cleaning, the implants were reincubated for 24 h. Biofilm viability was assessed through viability DNA extraction and quantitative PCR (v-qPCR). Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) were used to analyze biofilm structure and viability respectively. Results CHX and tetracycline treatments significantly reduced viable biofilm bacteria by 98.8% and 99.6%, respectively, compared to the negative control. The effect of the two electrolytic systems varied, with one reducing biofilm by 93.3%, similar to the positive controls, while the other showing only a 5.7% reduction in biofilm viability. SEM and CLSM imaging confirmed the distinct effects of the treatments on biofilm structure and viability. Conclusion The findings of this study highlight the potential of electrolytic cleaning as an effective minimally invasive approach for peri-implantitis management. However, this promising efficacy of the electrolytic cleaning systems alongside traditional antimicrobial agents in biofilm removal from dental implant surfaces greatly depend on the system. Further research is warranted to optimize different electrolytic cleaning protocols and validate their clinical efficacy in preventing and treating peri-implantitis.