Antibacterial photodynamic therapy for dental caries: evaluation of the photosensitizers used and light source properties.

Photodynamic therapy studies have shown promising results for inactivation of microorganisms related to dental caries. A large number of studies have used a variety of protocols, but few studies have analyzed photosensitizers and light source properties to obtain the best PDT dose response for dental caries. This study aims to discuss the photosensitizers and light source properties employed in PDT studies of dental caries. Three questions were formulated to discuss these aspects. The first involves the photosensitizer properties and their performance against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. The second discusses the use of light sources in accordance with the dye maximum absorbance to obtain optimal results. The third looks at the relevance of photosensitizer concentration, the possible formation of self-aggregates, and light source effectiveness. This review demonstrated that some groups of photosensitizers may be more effective against either Gram positive or negative bacteria, that the light source must be appropriate for dye maximum absorbance, and that some photosensitizers may have their absorbance modified with their concentration. For the best results of PDT against the main cariogenic bacteria (Streptococcus mutans), a variety of aspects should be taken into account, and among the analyzed photosensitizer, erythrosin seems to be the most appropriate since it acts against this Gram positive bacteria, has a hydrophilic tendency and even at low concentrations may have photodynamic effects. Considering erythrosin, the most appropriate light source should have a maximum emission intensity at a wavelength close to 530 nm, which may be achieved with low cost LEDs.