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Related Experiment Videos

Mutans streptococci caries and chlorhexidine

G H Bowden1

  • 1Department of Oral biology, faculty of Dentistry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg.

Journal (Canadian Dental Association)
|September 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary
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Mutans streptococci are linked to tooth decay. While bacterial counts can help monitor oral health, they aren't perfect for diagnosing individual caries risk. Chlorhexidine may help control these bacteria.

Area of Science:

  • Oral microbiology
  • Dental diagnostics
  • Preventive dentistry

Background:

  • Mutans streptococci (e.g., Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus) and Lactobacillus spp. are key odontopathogens associated with human dental caries.
  • Evaluating Mutans streptococci levels in plaque and saliva has been explored as a method to diagnose caries activity.
  • Controlling caries has involved reducing bacterial colonization, but success has been limited due to multifactorial influences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of Mutans streptococci in dental caries.
  • To discuss the utility of microbiological testing for caries diagnosis and risk assessment.
  • To evaluate the use of chlorhexidine as an adjunct in caries prevention and control.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on Mutans streptococci, caries, and antimicrobial agents.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Discussion of the diagnostic value and limitations of microbiological counts.
  • Examination of chlorhexidine's efficacy in various delivery forms (gel, combined with fluoride, sustained-release devices).

    • Main Results:

    • Microbiological counts, while not perfectly predictive for individuals, can establish baseline colonization patterns and indicate changes in oral status.
    • Chlorhexidine, particularly in gel form, is effective as an adjunct for caries control and prevention in patients with high Mutans streptococci counts.
    • Sustained-release chlorhexidine devices show potential for long-term bacterial reduction, though their caries prevention efficacy requires further assessment.

    Conclusions:

    • Microbiological testing for caries activity, despite limitations, can be a valuable tool in specific clinical situations.
    • Chlorhexidine offers proven benefits as an adjunct therapy for managing Mutans streptococci and preventing caries.
    • Practitioners should consider microbiological data and therapeutic options like chlorhexidine based on individual patient needs and clinical evidence.