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Microorganisms in root carious lesions in adults
M L Zaremba1, W Stokowska, A Klimiuk
1Department of Microbiology, Medical University of Białystok, Poland. zaremba@amb.edu.pl
Advances in Medical Sciences
|April 27, 2007
Summary
Root caries affects middle-aged and older adults, with aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, and Candida yeasts found in lesions. Streptococcus spp. and other bacteria were more common in older adults, while Candida albicans was prevalent in both groups.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gerodontology
- Oral Health
Background:
- Root caries is a growing concern for middle-aged and elderly populations.
- Advances in healthcare and longevity contribute to the increasing prevalence of root caries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in root carious lesions.
- To assess the presence of Candida yeasts in root carious lesions of middle-aged and older adults.
Main Methods:
- Bacteriological and mycological analyses were performed on root carious lesion samples from 78 adults.
- Standard culture, isolation, and identification techniques were employed for bacteria and fungi.
Main Results:
- Aerobic bacteria were more prevalent in older adults (63.5%) compared to middle-aged adults (52.5%).
- Specific bacteria like Streptococcus spp. and Micrococcus spp. were significantly more frequent in older adults.
- Candida species, including Candida albicans, were found in similar proportions in both age groups.
Conclusions:
- Aerobic Gram-positive cocci (Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp.), anaerobic bacteria (Peptostreptococcus spp.), and Candida albicans are frequently found in root carious lesions.
- The microbial profile of root caries shows variations between middle-aged and older adults, with certain species being more prevalent in the elderly.
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