Polishing of provisional crown materials: the effects on Streptococcus mutans adhesion and cellular biocompatibility, with real-time cell analysis of biocompatibility.

PURPOSE: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of polishing procedures on Streptococcus mutans adhesion and assess the biocompatibility of provisional crown materials using real-time cell analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four provisional crown materials were used: Dentalon Plus (DP), 3D Varseo Smile Temp (VS), CAD-CAM Cerasmart (CS), and Ceramill Temp (CT). A total of 156 disc-shaped specimens (2 × 5 mm; n = 6) were prepared and subjected to three polishing procedures: control (C), manual (M), and Optiglaze (O). Surface roughness (Ra) was measured with a profilometer. Streptococcus mutans adhesion and biocompatibility were evaluated at 24 and 72 h. Surface morphology was qualitatively evaluated with SEM. Data were analyzed using Two-way ANOVA, Linear Mixed Model analysis, Tukey post hoc test, and Pearson correlation analysis (P < .05). RESULTS: The Optiglaze-polished specimens exhibited lower Ra values than the manual and control groups. Streptococcus mutans adhesion was the highest in the DPC group and the lowest in the VSO and CTO groups at both time points. A positive association was observed between surface roughness and Streptococcus mutans adhesion (P < .001). Cell viability showed a time-dependent pattern, with the highest values in the VSO group at 24 h and in the DPO group at 72 h. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, Optiglaze polishing was associated with lower surface roughness and Streptococcus mutans adhesion, and higher cell viability, suggesting more favorable outcomes under these experimental conditions.