Biofilm Removal and Antimicrobial Activity of Two Different Air-Polishing Powders: An In Vitro Study

Background: Biofilm removal plays a central role in the prevention of periodontal and peri-implant diseases associated with microbial infections. Plaque debridement may be accomplished by air polishing using abrasive powders. In this study, a new formulation consisting of erythritol and chlorhexidine is compared with the standard glycine powder used in air-polishing devices. Their in vitro antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacteroides fragilis, and Candida albicans are investigated. Methods: Biofilm was allowed to grow on sandblasted titanium disks and air polished with glycine or erythritol-chlorhexidine powders. A semiquantitative analysis of biofilm by spectrophotometric assay was performed. A qualitative analysis was also carried out by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum microbicidal concentrations were evaluated, together with the microbial recovery from the residual biofilm after air-polishing treatment. Results: The combination of erythritol and chlorhexidine displayed stronger antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity than glycine against all microbial strains tested. Conclusion: Air polishing with erythritol-chlorhexidine seems to be a viable alternative to the traditional glycine treatment for biofilm removal.