Application of D-Amino Acids as Biofilm Dispersing Agent in Dental Unit Waterlines

Figure 3

Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of biofilms inside DUWLs (a) and reservoir bottle of DCUs (b) after incubation with distilled water, D-amino acids mixture (10 mM each), or 0.1 M hydrochloric acid (dissolvent control) for 5 days and subsequently flushed with distilled water. Bacterial biofilm on top of the underlying structure was eliminated in the D-amino acid groups. Bacterial biofilm. Arrow indicates surface texture of water reservoir bottle.

(a)

(b)