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Systematic Approach to Identify Novel Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Molecules from Plants' Extracts and Fractions to Prevent Dental Caries
Published on: March 31, 2021
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[Research Progress in the Relationship Between Lactobacillus and Dental Caries]
1State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Summary
Lactobacillus plays a dual role in dental caries, exhibiting both cariogenic and potential probiotic properties. Further research is needed to fully understand its impact on oral health and microecology.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Health
- Dental Caries Research
Background:
- Lactobacillus is strongly associated with dental caries due to its acid production, acid tolerance, collagen binding, and extracellular polysaccharide synthesis.
- Some Lactobacillus strains possess inhibitory effects against cariogenic bacteria through various mechanisms, including producing antibacterial compounds and competing for adhesion.
- Recent research explores Lactobacillus as a probiotic for caries prevention, but its full cariogenic and probiotic mechanisms require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of Lactobacillus's role in dental caries development.
- To explore the potential of Lactobacillus as a probiotic agent for caries prevention and control.
- To highlight the need for comprehensive research on Lactobacillus's effects on oral and systemic microecology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on Lactobacillus and dental caries.
- Analysis of studies investigating the cariogenic mechanisms of Lactobacillus.
- Evaluation of research on the probiotic potential and clinical applications of Lactobacillus in caries prevention.
Main Results:
- Lactobacillus contributes to dental caries through acidogenicity, aciduricity, and promoting bacterial adhesion.
- Certain Lactobacillus species demonstrate potential in inhibiting cariogenic bacteria and could be used as probiotics.
- Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding the complete cariogenic mechanisms and the impact of specific Lactobacillus strains on oral and intestinal microecology.
Conclusions:
- Lactobacillus has a complex role in dental caries, acting as both a causative agent and a potential therapeutic agent.
- Further research is essential to elucidate the dual properties of Lactobacillus and its comprehensive effects on oral and systemic health.
- Integrating knowledge of both cariogenic and probiotic aspects of Lactobacillus is crucial for developing effective strategies for dental caries prevention and control.
