Synthesis of an Experimental Gel Containing Biologically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles used in the Biofilm Disruption

The aim of the present study was to synthesize and evaluate the biological and mechanical properties of a polymeric gel associated with silver nanoparticles. The gels were composed of a Chitosan-Xanthan (CX) polyelectrolytic biopolymer complex associated or not with silver nanoparticles (Agnano), which were grouped into the following groups: G1) Gel CX; G2) CX Gel + 5% Agnano; G3) CX Gel + 2.5% Agnano; 4) CX Gel + 1.25% Agnano. The characterization of nanoparticles was performed through dynamic light scattering analysis, and gels through rheological analysis. The antimicrobial activity for Streptococcus mutans was performed by the inhibition halo method. The results obtained from DLS showed a Zeta potential of -30 mV and particle size approximately 100 nm. The rheological analysis shows that all groups had viscosity between 5 and 6.5 Pa, and with increasing shear stress the viscosity of all groups was decreased. For the analysis of antimicrobial activity, the antimicrobial potential was observed only for the CX gel containing 5% Agnano. Thus, it is concluded that the gel containing 5% Agnano is promising for use in orthodontic patients with a high rate of bacterial plaque and can be used to prevent white spot lesions during and after treatment.