Changes in oral microbiome in preschool children after using toothpaste with different fluoride concentrations

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Pediatric dentistry
• Caries prevention

Background:

• Dental caries is linked to an imbalanced oral microbiome.
• Fluoride toothpaste is common, but its microbiome effects at varying concentrations are unclear.
• Preschool children's oral microbiome response to fluoride toothpaste needs investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the short-term impact of different fluoride concentrations in toothpaste on the oral microbiome of preschool children.
• To compare the effects of standard fluoride (1000 ppm), low fluoride (500 ppm), and non-fluoride toothpaste.

Main Methods:

• 48 preschool children used assigned toothpaste for 4 weeks.
• Dental plaque samples collected at baseline, 1 week, and 4 weeks.
• Microbial community analyzed via 16S rDNA sequencing for diversity and composition shifts.

Main Results:

• No significant changes in overall microbial diversity (alpha diversity) were observed.
• Significant differences in microbial composition (beta diversity) were found between fluoride and non-fluoride groups.
• Standard fluoride (1000 ppm) toothpaste increased beneficial bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus parasanguinis) and decreased potentially harmful bacteria (e.g., Haemophilus).

Conclusions:

• Fluoride toothpaste, particularly at 1000 ppm, modulates the oral microbiome in preschool children.
• This modulation involves reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial species, potentially aiding caries prevention.
• Findings support the use of standard fluoride toothpaste for a healthier oral microbial balance in pediatric dental care.