Sharma Prashant K, UMCG Groningen, The Netherlands

Influence of salivary pellicle structure upon its tribological and adhesion properties

Approach of two surfaces towards each other leads to either adhesion or articulation (sliding while in contact). Both these phenomena have long term health implications. Adhesion of microorganisms may lead biofilm formation and infection. Low friction during articulation on the other hand is a necessity for normal function inside the human body. The moment a clean surface is introduced in the human body, it gets covered with a conditioning film. This adsorbed film is composed of biopolymers, such as proteins, glycoproteins, polysaccharides, lipids, organic compounds etc. In the oral cavity, salivary conditioning films (pellicle) forms on all the available surfaces. Salivary pellicle is important as a boundary lubricant during articulation which is essential for normal speech and eating, in absence of which a Xerostomia (dry mouth) patient have difficulty in both the above mentioned functions. Salivary pellicle also forms the base layer over which initial colonizers adhere and form plaque. Therefore the structure of salivary pellicle is important both for normal oral function and hygiene. In this study the structure of pellicle is determined using quartz crystal microbalance in terms of layer thickness and its viscoelastic properties. The coefficient of friction is determined using lateral force atomic force microscopy. Variables like maturation of the salivary pellicle and exposure to oral care products are considered in the study.