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Published on: July 4, 2018
Viability of bacteria in dental calculus - A microbiological study
Nikesh N Moolya1, Srinath Thakur, S Ravindra
1Department of Periodontics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology
|July 7, 2011
Summary
Viable bacteria, including motile forms and various morphotypes, were found within dental calculus. These findings highlight the presence of active microbial communities in calculus deposits.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Periodontology
- Dental Calculus Research
Background:
- Dental calculus harbors diverse microbial communities.
- Understanding bacterial viability and characteristics within calculus is crucial for periodontal health.
- Previous research has focused on calculus composition, but bacterial activity requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the viability of bacteria residing in supragingival and subgingival dental calculus.
- To evaluate the motility of bacteria present within calculus samples.
- To identify the different bacterial morphotypes inhabiting dental calculus.
Main Methods:
- Calculus samples were collected from 30 patients with chronic inflammatory periodontal disease.
- Microscopic examination included Gram staining and dark field microscopy.
- Bacterial viability was assessed using acridine orange staining, and cultures were performed.
Main Results:
- Gram staining confirmed the presence of bacteria within calculus.
- Dark field microscopy revealed filamentous organisms, spirochetes, and motile short bacilli.
- Acridine orange staining indicated viable bacteria, and cultures identified various aerobic organisms.
Conclusions:
- Viable bacteria are confirmed to exist within dental calculus.
- Bacteria were particularly prevalent in the internal channels and lacunae of calculus.
- The study underscores the presence of active microbial ecosystems within calculus deposits.
Keywords:
Acridine orange stainingaerobic bacterial culturegram stainingspirochetessubgingival calculusMore Related Videos
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