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Oral Biofilm Sampling for Microbiome Analysis in Healthy Children
Published on: December 31, 2017
Regional differences within the dentition for plaque, gingivitis, and anaerobic bacteria
P K Sreenivasan1, W DeVizio, K V V Prasad
1Colgate-Palmolive Technology Center, Piscataway, NJ, USA. Prem_Sreenivasan@colpal.com
The Journal of Clinical Dentistry
|June 10, 2010
Summary
Dental plaque and gingivitis are more prevalent on posterior teeth than anterior surfaces. Microbiological analysis confirms higher bacterial counts in posterior plaque, highlighting regional differences in oral health.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Periodontology
- Dental hygiene
Background:
- Dental plaque and gingivitis are common oral conditions.
- Regional variations in plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation exist within the human dentition.
- Understanding these differences is crucial for effective oral health management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess regional differences in dental plaque and gingivitis.
- To correlate clinical findings with microbiological analyses of dental plaque.
- To investigate the impact of oral hygiene practices on these parameters.
Main Methods:
- Forty-one adults underwent dental examinations for plaque (PI) and gingivitis (GI) using standardized indices.
- Dental plaque samples were collected from anterior and posterior surfaces for bacterial analysis.
- Clinical assessments and plaque sampling were performed at baseline, day 15, and day 30 post-prophylaxis.
Main Results:
- Anterior tooth surfaces consistently showed significantly lower plaque and gingivitis scores compared to posterior regions.
- Prophylaxis reduced clinical scores, but regional differences persisted.
- Microbiological analysis revealed significantly lower viable anaerobic bacteria counts on anterior surfaces versus posterior regions.
Conclusions:
- Significant regional variations in dental plaque, gingivitis, and bacterial load exist in the human dentition.
- Posterior teeth surfaces consistently exhibit higher levels of plaque and gingivitis.
- These findings emphasize the importance of considering regional differences in the design and interpretation of oral health studies.
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