Biomaterials for the prevention of oral candidiasis development

Abstract

Thousands of microorganisms coexist within the human microbiota. However, certain conditions can predispose the organism to the overgrowth of specific pathogens that further lead to opportunistic infections. One of the most common such imbalances in the normal oral flora is the excessive growth of Candida spp, which produces oral candidiasis. In immunocompromised indi-viduals, this fungal infection can reach the systemic level and become life-threatening. Hence, prompt and efficient treatment must be administered. Traditional antifungal agents, such as poly-enes, azoles, and echinocandins, may often result in severe adverse effects, regardless of the administration form. Therefore, novel treatments have to be developed and implemented in clinical prac-tice. In this regard, the present paper focuses on the newest therapeutic options against oral Candida infections, reviewing compounds and biomaterials with inherent antifungal properties, improved materials for dental prostheses and denture adhesives, drug delivery systems, and combined approaches towards developing the optimum treatment.