Multifunctional modification of orthodontic adhesives with ZnO quantum dots

Objectives To develop a multifunctional orthodontic adhesive (QDA) using ZnO quantum-dots (ZnQDs) as modifier and investigate the antibacterial capability, fluorescence property as well as biocompatibility and bonding property. Methods ZnQDs were synthesized using sol-gel method. XPS, XRD, FT-IR, HRTEM, SAED, DLS and spectrofluorimetry were used to characterize ZnQDs. ZnQDs were incorporated into Transbond XT adhesive paste with 20 %, 30 %, 40 % mass fraction, respectively, to form the multifunctional adhesives (QDAs). Antibacterial capability was evaluated with MTT kit, CFU count and Live/Dead Bacterial Staining Kit. Ultraviolet photography and spectrofluorimetry were used to confirm the fluorescence property of QDAs. Biocompatibility assay was performed on gingival fibroblasts and subcutaneous tissue of rats. Softening in solvent rate, shear bond strength and degree of conversion (DC) were measured. Results The synthesized ZnQDs presented excellent crystallinity and fluorescence properties. MTT assay, CFU count and CLSM analysis indicated that QDAs had significant antibacterial activity compared with Transbond XT adhesive paste. CCK-8 assay and Live/Dead cell staining analysis denied the cytotoxicity of QDAs and histological analysis proved that QDAs all had no inflammatory irritation to subcutaneous tissue. Softening in solvent, shear bond strength and DC evaluations indicated that 20 % mixing ratio of ZnQDs could enhance the resistance to degradation without influencing the bond strength and DC. Ultraviolet photography and spectrofluorimetry analysis proved the fluorescence capability of QDAs. Significance ZnQDs can impart antibacterial and fluorescence properties to orthodontic adhesives without affecting biocompatibility and bonding performance. QDAs can be multifunctional orthodontic adhesives to reduce bacterial adhesion around brackets and help orthodontists remove residual adhesives precisely when needed.