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Live Helicobacter pylori in the root canal of endodontic-infected deciduous teeth

Christian Hirsch1, Nicole Tegtmeyer, Manfred Rohde

  • 1Department of Paediatric Dentistry, University School of Dental Medicine, University of Leipzig, Nuernberger Straße 57, 04103, Leipzig, Germany. Christian.Hirsch@medizin.uni-leipzig.de

Journal of Gastroenterology
|June 23, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Live Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) were isolated from infected root canals in children's teeth, suggesting these canals may harbor the bacteria. This finding indicates a potential reservoir for H. pylori transmission.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Endodontics
  • Oral Health

Background:

  • Helicobacter pylori DNA is frequently detected in oral samples via PCR.
  • Isolation of live H. pylori from the oral cavity is rare, questioning its survival.
  • The oral environment's capacity to sustain live H. pylori remains uncertain.

Observation:

  • This study investigated live H. pylori in root canals and plaque of endodontically infected deciduous teeth.
  • Methods included electron microscopy, selective culturing, urease assays, 16S rRNA PCR, and western blotting.
  • Samples were obtained from 10 root canal and plaque pairs from three children.

Findings:

  • H. pylori DNA was detected in both plaque and root canal samples.
  • Live H. pylori colonies were successfully cultured exclusively from two root canal samples, not plaque.
  • Microscopic, genetic, and biochemical analyses confirmed the identity of the cultured bacteria as H. pylori.

Implications:

  • Root canals of endodontically infected teeth can serve as a reservoir for live H. pylori.
  • This reservoir may represent a potential source for H. pylori transmission.
  • Further research is needed to understand the role of oral reservoirs in H. pylori infection and transmission.

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