In vitro Candida colonization on acrylic resins and denture liners: influence of surface free energy, roughness, saliva, and adhering bacteria

This study aimed to determine the influence of surface roughness (Ra), surface free energy (SFE), saliva, and bacteria on Candida adhesion to denture materials. The Ra and SFE of 2 acrylic resin specimens and 2 denture liner specimens were measured and assayed in a flow chamber for bacteria culture perfusion plus Candida albicans or C glabrata cultures. Adhesion was determined by counting under light microscopy. Candida adhesion showed significant differences depending on the factors involved. The overall colonization was significantly decreased by saliva and influenced by bacteria. Candida adhesion was strongly affected by Ra, saliva, and bacteria, but not by SFE.