Laser Diffractometer for Measuring Bacterial Biodegradation of Dental Materials

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), a major cariogenic bacterium, has exhibited esterase activities, and has been shown to degrade dental resin composites and adhesives contributing to the risk of developing secondary caries and failed restorations. Changes to the surface morphology of the resin materials have been observed through SEMs; however, they were not quantified. In the current study, we present the development of a laser diffractometer whereby we can apply it to determining quantitatively the surface roughness spectrum of a dental material due to bacteria biodegradation.