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Oral Biofilm Sampling for Microbiome Analysis in Healthy Children
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Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in Patients Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Treatment
Umarevathi Gopalakrishnan1, Rajalakshmi Thakshina Murthy1, A Sumathi Felicita2
1Department of Orthodontics, Sri Venkateswara Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, India.
International Dental Journal
|September 30, 2022
Summary
Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) were found more often in orthodontic patients than in healthy individuals. The presence of stainless steel in braces may encourage SRB growth, potentially impacting oral health.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Dental materials science
Background:
- The oral microbiome plays a role in the corrosion of orthodontic appliances.
- Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) are implicated in metal corrosion processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of SRB in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.
- To investigate the association between orthodontic appliances and SRB colonization.
Main Methods:
- Collected oral biofilm samples (supragingival and subgingival) from 69 orthodontic patients and 69 controls.
- Utilized DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and 16sRNA Sanger sequencing to detect and identify SRB.
- Analyzed bacterial genus by comparing sequenced PCR products with databases.
Main Results:
- Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) were detected in 20% of orthodontic patients, compared to approximately 2.9% in controls.
- Black precipitates, indicating iron sulfides, were observed in 14 orthodontic patients, suggesting SRB presence.
- 16sRNA sequencing confirmed the presence of Desulfovibrio spp. in positive samples.
Conclusions:
- SRB prevalence is significantly higher in individuals with orthodontic appliances.
- The presence of stainless steel in the oral environment may promote SRB colonization.
- Findings suggest a potential link between SRB and orthodontic metal corrosion.
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