Streptococcus mutans and caries prevalence in rural Thai

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Epidemiology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Dental caries remains a significant public health concern globally, particularly in developing regions.
• Understanding the prevalence and contributing factors of dental caries in specific populations is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of dental caries in a rural Thai population.
• To explore potential associations between dental caries and oral habits, water fluoride levels, and Streptococcus mutans presence.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 521 rural Thai individuals.
• Assessment of dental caries using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index.
• Collection and analysis of drinking water samples for fluoride concentration and plaque samples for Streptococcus mutans identification.

Main Results:

• The average DMFT index score was 1.34 +/- 2.67, with a significantly higher score (4.12) observed in children under 10 years.
• No statistically significant relationship was found between betel nut chewing habits and caries prevalence.
• Fluoride concentrations in drinking water ranged from 0.11 to 1.64 ppmF-, and 14.2% of plaque samples tested positive for Streptococcus mutans (biotype I).

Conclusions:

• Children under 10 years exhibit a notably higher prevalence of dental caries.
• Changing lifestyle and nutritional patterns may contribute to the increased caries prevalence in children.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific factors driving high caries rates in this population.