Related Experiment Videos
Lactobacilli from the dentin and saliva in children
1University de Bordeaux II, France.
The Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Lactobacilli bacteria are prevalent in children's carious dentin, contributing to high levels in saliva. However, Lactobacillus counts are not a reliable predictor of dental caries in children.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Pediatric dentistry
- Dental caries research
Background:
- Lactobacilli are implicated in dental caries development.
- Understanding Lactobacillus distribution in children's oral environments is crucial for caries management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and correlation of Lactobacilli in saliva, dental plaque, and carious dentinal plaque in children.
- To assess the relationship between Lactobacillus counts and the Decayed, Missing, and Filled (DMF) index.
Main Methods:
- Simultaneous detection of Lactobacilli in saliva, dental plaque, and carious dentinal plaque samples.
- Analysis of 66 children aged 5 to 15 years.
- Correlation of Lactobacillus presence with the DMF index.
Main Results:
- Lactobacilli were detected in 100% of dentinal plaque samples, 70% of saliva samples, and 29% of dental plaque samples.
- A strong, systematic link was observed between the DMF index and dentinal Lactobacilli.
- The DMF index showed a weak association with salivary Lactobacilli and no association with plaque Lactobacilli.
Conclusions:
- Carious dentin acts as a significant reservoir, leading to hypercontamination of saliva with Lactobacilli.
- Lactobacillus counts alone are unlikely to serve as a predictive diagnostic test for dental caries in children.