Microbiome of Deep Dentinal Caries from Reversible Pulpitis to Irreversible Pulpitis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Dental Research
• Inflammation Studies

Background:

• Deep dentinal caries is linked to pulpitis, an inflammation of the dental pulp.
• Understanding the oral microbiome in deep caries is crucial for diagnosing pulpitis.
• Previous studies have not fully characterized the caries microbiome's role in pulpitis progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the deep dentinal caries microbiome.
• To correlate the caries microbiome with pulpitis inflammation status.
• To evaluate the diagnostic potential of the caries microbiome for pulpitis.

Main Methods:

• Analyzed 75 deep dentinal caries cases categorized into four groups based on pulpitis severity.
• Utilized 16S rDNA sequencing for microbiome profiling.
• Employed diversity analyses (alpha and beta) and LEfSe for intergroup comparisons.
• Generated ROC curves to assess diagnostic accuracy.

Main Results:

• Lactobacillus was the most abundant genus across all groups.
• Significant differences in microbiome distribution were observed between groups.
• Species richness varied between reversible pulpitis groups.
• Microbial composition in symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (SIP) was distinct.
• LEfSe revealed substantial intergroup microbiome differences.
• ROC curves demonstrated high diagnostic potential (AUC: 0.734-0.952).

Conclusions:

• The caries microbiome composition varies with the degree of pulpitis.
• Microbiome characterization can serve as an auxiliary diagnostic tool for pulpitis.
• Findings may guide new diagnostic strategies for caries-induced pulpitis.