A comparative evaluation of the effects of respiratory diseases on dental caries.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the susceptibility of patients suffering from asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to dental caries by analyzing the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of saliva, which are influenced by the medications they use. METHODS: A cohort of 104 individuals, spanning from 18 to 70 years of age, underwent a meticulous categorization based on their unique medical profiles and prescribed medication routines. Subsequently, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted to elucidate potential risk factors associated with dental caries. Alongside the assessment of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT index), decayed, missing, and filled surfaces (DMFS index), and Green and Vermillion Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (G&V OHI-S) values, measurements were performed to gauge salivary flow rate, buffering capacity, and the presence of S. mutans, L. casei, S. aureus, and C. albicans. The acquired data were then inputted into the Cariogram software, enabling the derivation of personalized caries risk profiles for each individual. RESULTS: The diseased group exhibited significantly elevated levels of DMFT, DMFS, and G&V OHI-S values in comparison to the control group (p < 0.01). Moreover, the caries risk levels derived from the Cariogram were found to be significantly higher in patients diagnosed with asthma and COPD (p < 0.01). Notably, no substantial distinction was observed between these two experimental groups. Furthermore, it was discerned that COPD patients utilizing two or three distinct medications did not display any discernible variation in terms of their susceptibility to dental caries (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Asthma and COPD patients exhibit an increased susceptibility to dental caries as a result of their medication regimens. Hence, it is highly advisable for these individuals to demonstrate heightened vigilance in terms of oral hygiene practices and seek regular dental check-ups for continuous monitoring and preventive care.

Assessment of oral bacteria potentially associated with the mobile microbiome in children with congenital heart disease.

In this case-control study, we aimed to investigate the specific oral pathogens potentially associated with the mobile microbiome in children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Caries, oral hygiene and gingival indices were evaluated in 20 children with CHD and a healthy control group, and venous blood samples and saliva were collected. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), blood samples were analyzed for the presence of bacterial DNA to determine the mobile microbiome, and saliva samples were analyzed to identify and quantify target microorganisms, including Streptococcus mutans (Sm) and its serotype k (Smk), Fusobacterium. nucleatum (Fn), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Scardovia wiggsiae (Sw) and Aggregitibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) and its JP2 clone (JP2). The findings were analyzed by Mann Whitney U, chi-square, Fisher's exact and Spearman's Correlation tests. Bacterial DNA was identified in two blood samples. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding the presence and counts of bacteria in saliva. However, the CHD group exhibited significantly lower caries and higher gingival index scores than the control group. The presence of Pg and Aa were significantly associated with higher gingival index scores. Sm and Smk counts were significantly correlated with caries experience. A positive correlation was found between Fn and total bacteria counts. In conclusion, the mobile microbiome, which has been proposed as a potential marker of dysbiosis at distant sites, was very rare in our pediatric population. The counts of target microorganisms which are potentially associated with the mobile microbiome did not differ in children with CHD and healthy children.

Antibacterial effects of dentifrices against Streptococcus mutans in children: a comparative in vitro study.

Fluoridated dentifrices have antibacterial effects on children's teeth. On the other hand, the side effects encountered with the use of them have led researchers to look for safe alternatives. This study aimed to determine the antibacterial effect of different commercially available fluoride-free dentifrices on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) in comparison with different concentrations of fluoridated dentifrices. Study groups comprised of fluoride-free dentifrices, which contain Probiotic (Activated Charcoal Probiotic Dentifrice-Group P), Aloe Vera-Group AV and Salivary Proteins-Group SP. Fluoridated dentifrices containing 1450 ppm fluoride-Control Group 1 and 500 ppm fluoride-Control Group 2 served as control groups. Antibacterial activity was assessed by Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations and agar well diffusion assays on S. mutans. Biofilm inhibition assay was performed with dentifrices, which had antibacterial activities, and a negative control phosphate-buffered saline (Group PBS) on sterile hydroxyapatite discs against S. mutans. Statistical evaluation was performed. Only group AV showed an antibacterial effect on S. mutans, while control groups showed a similar antibacterial effect. The mean number of viable bacteria present in S. mutans biofilm in Control Group 1 and 2 and Group AV were statistically significantly lower than that in Group PBS, but there were no statistically significant differences between Control Groups and Group AV. Antibacterial activity of commercial dentifrices against S. mutans may be exerted by antibacterial components other than fluoride. Aloe vera-containing toothpaste showed an antibacterial effect on S. mutans, although not as much as the fluoride-containing toothpastes in the control groups. However, further in vivo and long-term studies are required.

[Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of Prevotella Species Determined by Gradient Test Method in Two Centers in Istanbul]. / Istanbul'da Iki Merkeze ait Prevotella Türlerinin Gradiyent Test Yöntemiyle Belirlenen Antimikrobiyal Ilaç Duyarliligi.

Prevotella species, being members of the human microbiota, are obligate anaerobic gram-negative bacteria. These organisms may cause opportunistic infections, including specific oral infections, local or systemic infections. A significant increase of resistance to some antimicrobials has been detected among Prevotella species. The frequency of resistance vary among isolates from different infection sources and between geographic locations. The knowledge about the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of different Prevotella species is limited in Turkey. Providing the antimicrobial susceptibility data of these bacteria is very important for effective empirical treatment. In this study, we aimed to determine susceptibility data for 12 antimicrobial agents against Prevotella strains originating from human infections, collected in two centers in Turkey. A total of 118 Prevotella strains, isolated from different clinical samples in Marmara University Faculty of Medicine Medical Microbiology and Istanbul University Faculty of Dentistry Oral Microbiology Laboratories between January 2014-December 2017, were tested. Organisms were identified by using MALDI-TOF MS and by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Minimal inhibitor concentrations of ampicillin, ampicillin-sulbactam, piperacillin-tazobactam, cefoxitin, meropenem, imipenem, clindamycin, tetracycline, tigecycline, moxifloxacin and metronidazole were determined using gradiyent test methodology (E-test; bioMerieux, France) and the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute and Food and Drug Administration guidelines were used for interpretation. Thirteen different Prevotella species were identified, Prevotella bivia and Prevotella nigrescens were the most prevalent species (n= 21) followed by Prevotella buccae (n= 19). All Prevotella strains were susceptible to piperacillin-tazobactam, cefoxitin, meropenem, imipenem and tigecycline. A total of 2 (1.7%) isolates were resistant to metronidazole and 1 (0.8%) isolate was intermediately resistant to ampicillin/sulbactam. The frequency of resistant isolates against ampicillin, clindamycin, tetracycline and moxifloxacin were 57.6%, 36.4%, 18% and 16.3%, respectively. In conclusion, piperacillin/tazobactam, cefoxitin, and tigecycline displayed high in vitro activity against Prevotella spp. and they all remained good candidates for empiric therapy. Imipenem and meropenem were also found to be very active, but the usage of carbapenems should be reserved for serious mixed infections, potentially accompanied by other resistant organisms. Intermediate resistance to ampicillinsulbactam and the resistance against metronidazole emphasized the need of periodic monitoring of their susceptibility patterns. The high rates of non-susceptibility to ampicillin, clindamycin, tetracycline and moxifloxacin indicated that these antimicrobials should not be used for treatment of infections without prior antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

Microbial Profile and Dental Caries in Cleft Lip and Palate Babies Between 0 and 3 Years Old.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the microbiological changes in newborn babies with cleft lip palate from birth up to age 3 and to correlate them with their caries levels and mothers' microbiological data and to compare with normal infants. BASIC RESEARCH DESIGN: Prospective. SETTINGS: Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry Clinic, and Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Education and Research Hospital New Born Clinic. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Cleft lip palate (n = 21) and healthy (n = 13) newborns and their mothers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Intraoral samples were taken from babies in each group at least 3 times over the 3 years. Saliva samples of the mothers were collected just after the birth of the babies and examined microbiologically. Dental caries was noted as either present or absent. RESULTS: The most frequent microorganisms were candida, found at birth (n = 9, 42%) in cleft palate with or without cleft lip (CP±L) group. The number of babies infected with Lactobacilli were found to be significantly higher in the CP±L group than in the control group at birth ( P = .029) and after eruption of the first primary tooth ( P = .030). Mutans Streptococci were found in 10% of babies with CP±L at birth. Initial caries was identified in 20% of the babies with an oral cleft compared with 0% of the controls after eruption of the first primary incisors. CONCLUSION: The results show that the CP±L babies must be considered as a group with an increased caries risk.

Pathogen profile and MMP-3 levels in areas with varied attachment loss in generalized aggressive and chronic periodontitis.

INTRODUCTION: The progression of periodontitis depends on the changes in bone and connective tissue homeostasis and the imbalance of the biofilm and the host immunoinflammatory response, particularly matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess the probable relation between subgingival anaerobic flora and the expression of MMP-3 in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis (AgP), chronic periodontitis (CP) and healthy subjects, and to evaluate these levels according to varied tissue loss severity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment levels (CAL) were evaluated. MMP levels obtained from gingival sulcus fluid (GCF) were measured with Enzyme Linked Immuno Assay (ELISA). The bacterial counts were determined with Parocheck®. RESULTS: Higher levels of MMP-3 in patients with AgP compared to subjects with CP and healthy individuals were observed. The microorganisms responsible of possible tissue destruction in both AgP and CP are red complex bacteria. T. denticola, T. forsythia, P. intermedia and F. nucleatum show positive correlation with MMP-3 levels. CONCLUSIONS: MMP-3 is a biomarker associated with AgP, and red complex bacteria levels are correlated with increasing periodontal tissue loss in both periodontitis forms. The diagnosis of aggressive periodontitis, or site-specific treatment strategies can be orchestrated based on the evaluation of MMP-3 and the bacterial counts in patients with periodontitis.

Performance of mass spectrometric identification of clinical Prevotella species using the VITEK MS system: A prospective multi-center study.

Prevotella species, members of the human microbiota, can cause opportunistic infections. Rapid and accurate identification of Prevotella isolates plays a critical role in successful treatment, especially since the antibiotic susceptibility profile differs between species. Studies, mostly carried out using the Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) Biotyper system, showed that MALDI-TOF MS is an accurate, rapid and satisfactory method for the identification of clinically important anaerobes. In this multi-center study, we assessed the performance of the MALDI-TOF MS VITEK MS system for the identification of clinical Prevotella isolates. A total of 508 Prevotella isolates, representing 19 different species, collected from 11 European countries, Kuwait and Turkey between January 2014 and April 2016, were identified using VITEK MS (v3.0). The reliability of the identification was assessed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Using VITEK MS, 422 (83.1%) of the 508 isolates were identified on the species level, 459 (90.4%) on the genus level. A total of 49 (9.6%) isolates were not identified correctly. 16S rRNA gene sequencing results showed that this was partly due to the fact that several species were not represented in the database. However, some species that were represented in the database were also not identified. Five Prevotella strains were misidentified at the genus level, 2 of these strains belonged to a species not represented in the database. In general, the VITEK MS offers a reliable and rapid identification of Prevotella species, however the databases needs to be expanded.

A multicenter survey of antimicrobial susceptibility of Prevotella species as determined by Etest methodology.

Knowledge about the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of different Prevotella species is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the current antimicrobial susceptibility of clinical isolates of Prevotella species from different parts of Europe, Kuwait and Turkey. Activity of 12 antimicrobials against 508 Prevotella isolates, representing 19 species, were tested according to Etest methodology. EUCAST, CLSI and FDA guidelines were used for susceptibility interpretations. All Prevotella species were susceptible to piperacillin/tazobactam, imipenem, meropenem, tigecycline and metronidazole. Ampicillin/sulbactam and cefoxitin also showed good activity. Ampicillin, clindamycin, tetracycline and moxifloxacin were less active; 51.2%, 33.7%, 36.8% and 18.3% of isolates were non-susceptible, respectively. A total of 49 (9.6%) isolates were resistant to three or more antimicrobials. Prevotella bivia was the most prevalent species (n = 118) and accounted for most of the multidrug-resistant isolates. In conclusion, the level of non-susceptibility to antimicrobials, which may be used for treatment of infections involving Prevotella species, are a cause of concern. This data emphasizes the need for species level identification of clinical Prevotella isolates and periodic monitoring of their susceptibility to guide empirical treatment.

Effect of two different polishing systems on fluoride release, surface roughness and bacterial adhesion of newly developed restorative materials.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of two different polishing systems on fluoride release, surface roughness and bacterial adhesion of five restorative materials MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study groups were comprised of five different restorative materials, Beautifil II (B); GCP Glass Fill (G); Amalgomer CR (A); Dyract XP (D); Fuji IX GP (F) and 21 specimens were prepared from each material. Each group was divided into three subgroups according to the polishing system: Mylar (control) (C), Sof-lex (S), and Enhance-Pogo (EP). The amount of fluoride release was measured using a fluoride ion-selective electrode and surface roughness was investigated with a profilometer. Bacterial adhesion on the materials was evaluated by optical density readouts for S.mutans on a spectrophotometer. RESULTS: The highest amount of fluoride was released from specimens in the S subgroup of group G during all measurement days. Surface roughness values were significantly lower in subgroup C than the other polishing systems in all study groups except group G (P < .05). Group A displayed significantly higher surface roughness values than the other material groups in both subgroups (S and EP) (P < .01). Highest bacterial adhesion was observed in the EP subgroup of group A. CONCLUSIONS: Polishing promoted a significant increase of fluoride release on restorative materials especially in glass ionomer-based materials. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This article stated that polishing promoted a significant increase of fluoride release on restorative materials especially in glass ionomer-based materials. Further, proper polishing systems must be chosen according to the structure and composition of materials to provide the best clinical benefits in terms of fluoride release, surface roughness and bacterial adhesion.

16S rRNA based microarray analysis of ten periodontal bacteria in patients with different forms of periodontitis.

DNA microarray analysis is a computer based technology, that a reverse capture, which targets 10 periodontal bacteria (ParoCheck) is available for rapid semi-quantitative determination. The aim of this three-year retrospective study was to display the microarray analysis results for the subgingival biofilm samples taken from patient cases diagnosed with different forms of periodontitis. A total of 84 patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAP,n:29), generalized chronic periodontitis (GCP, n:25), peri-implantitis (PI,n:14), localized aggressive periodontitis (LAP,n:8) and refractory chronic periodontitis (RP,n:8) were consecutively selected from the archives of the Oral Microbiological Diagnostic Laboratory. The subgingival biofilm samples were analyzed by the microarray-based identification of 10 selected species. All the tested species were detected in the samples. The red complex bacteria were the most prevalent with very high levels in all groups. Fusobacterium nucleatum was detected in all samples at high levels. The green and blue complex bacteria were less prevalent compared with red and orange complex, except Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitas was detected in all LAP group. Positive correlations were found within all the red complex bacteria and between red and orange complex bacteria especially in GCP and GAP groups. Parocheck enables to monitoring of periodontal pathogens in all forms of periodontal disease and can be alternative to other guiding and reliable microbiologic tests.

Antibacterial effect of Kenger gum on mutans streptococci and its cytotoxic effect on the 3T3 fibroblast cell line.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the antibacterial effect of Kenger gum on mutans streptococci (in vivo) and Streptococcus mutans (in vitro) and its cytotoxic effect on the 3T3 fibroblast cell line. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vitro antibacterial activity of Kenger gum extracts against S.mutans was determined by the disk-diffusion method. The broth dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The cytotoxic effect on 3T3 fibroblast cells at different time intervals was determined using cell culture and viability assays. Clinical studies were then performed on 20 healthy adult subjects, where a sugar-free chewing gum was used as a control. To determine the MS counts, oral rinse samples were taken before chewing as well as 30 and 60 min after 15 min of chewing. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare the bacteria level in the oral rinse samples between the two chewing gums. The Least Significant Difference test was used for adjustment for multiple comparisons. RESULTS: The MIC of the acetone extract of Kenger gum was 30 µg/ml. The acetone extract of Kenger gum possessed moderate antiproliferative properties against the non-tumorigenic cell line 3T3. A statistically significant decrease was observed for both chewing gums at 30 and 60 min. The decrease continued at 60 min after chewing Kenger gum, while the values for control gum tended to approach the baseline after 60 min. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study showed that Kenger gum had particular and prolonged antibacterial activity against S. mutans and salivary mutans streptococci.

Presence of oral bacterial species in primary endodontic infections of primary teeth.

OBJECTIVE: Knowledge of the microbial composition of deciduous endodontic infections is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of the 10 oral bacterial species in samples from primary tooth root canals by using microarray technology and to determine the association of these organisms with clinical conditions. STUDY DESIGN: The samples were collected from 30 root canals of primary teeth with primer infection. The bacterial composition of the samples was semi-quantitatively defined using a microarray system (Parocheck). RESULTS: All the tested species were detected in the samples. Fusobacterium nucleatum was the most frequently isolated bacterium (96.7%), followed by Prevotella intermedia (86.7%), Parvimonas micra (83.3%), Treponema denticola (76.7%) and Tannerella forsythia (66.7%). These bacteria were also present in high levels. All pairs of bacterial species were positively associated (RR > 1), except Pintermedia and P > micra. On average, five species (range:3-8) were detected per amplified sample. Root canals of teeth with > 5 different species were statistically associated with periapical radiolucency (P = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS: Primary teeth with endodontic infections show a highly diverse variety of bacteria, in which the most prevalent specie are present in high proportions. The well-directed use of the improved microarray technology will provide additional valuable information for causative factors associated with endodontic diseases, helping to develop more successful antibacterial or anti-inflammatory treatment strategies.

Prevalence of salivary Streptococcus mutans serotype k in children undergoing congenital heart surgery.

OBJECTIVE: The prevalence of Streptococcus mutans serotype k, which was speculated that might be associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases, has been reported in adult cardiovascular surgery patients. There is no information about presence of serotype k in children with cardiac disease. The aim of this study was to determine the salivary prevalence of S. mutans serotype k in children with congenital heart disease. STUDY DESIGN: Salivary samples of 25 patients undergoing elective surgery for congenital heart defects with cardiopulmonary bypass and an age and gender matched control group of 25 healthy children were enrolled in the study. Species-specific 16SrRNA gene sequences were used for S. mutans and serotype-specific rgpF gene sequences were used for S. mutans serotype k determination in stimulated saliva samples. RESULTS: S. mutans was detected in 19 (76%) of the study and 15 (60%) of the control children. The difference was not shown to be statistically significant. Serotype k was determined from 3 (12%) of the study group, while it was not determined from the samples of the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that those children with congenital heart disease may possess S. mutans serotype k in oral cavity at a higher frequency as similar with the adult cardiac surgery patients.

Effects of two fluoride varnishes and one fluoride/chlorhexidine varnish on Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus biofilm formation in vitro.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate and to compare the effect of two fluoride varnishes and one fluoride/chlorhexidine varnish on Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus biofilm formation, in vitro. STUDY DESIGN: Standard acrylic discs were prepared and divided into groups based on the varnish applied to the disc surface: Fluor Protector, Bifluoride 12, and Fluor Protector + Cervitec (1:1). Untreated discs served as controls. In the study groups, biofilms of S. mutans and S. sobrinus were formed over 24 h, 48 h, and 5 days. The fluoride concentrations in the monospecies biofilms and viable counts of S. mutans and S. sobrinus were investigated. RESULTS: In all study groups, a statistically significant increase in the viable number of S. mutans and S. sobrinus cells was observed between 24 h and 5 days. In both monospecies biofilms, the greatest antibacterial efficacy was detected in the Fluor Protector and Fluor Protector + Cervitec groups at 24 h. For all groups, the amount of fluoride released was highest during the first 24 h, followed by a significant decrease over the next 4 days. A negative correlation was detected between fluoride concentration and antibacterial effect in those groups with biofilms containing both species. Despite the release of high levels of fluoride, the greatest number of viable S. mutans and S. sobrinus cells was detected in the Bifluoride 12 group. STATISTICS: The data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism software (ver. 3). CONCLUSIONS: The Fluor Protector + Cervitec varnish exerted prolonged antibacterial effects on S. mutans and S. sobrinus biofilms compared to the other varnishes tested.

Relationship between oral anaerobic bacteria and otitis media with effusion.

OBJECTIVE: In this study hypothesing the translocation of oral bacteria from oropharynx into the middle ear cavity may be involved in the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion (OME), we aimed to investigate the presence and similarity of Fusobacterium nucleatum and Treponema denticola in saliva, nasopharyngeal secretion and the middle ear effusion samples from the children with OME. METHODS: Totally 20 children with OME undergoing myringotomy and ventilation tube placement were attended. Stimulated saliva samples were collected after otorhinolaryngological and oral examinations were done. The middle ear effusion and nasopharyngeal secretions were collected during the operations. The presence of F. nucleatum and T. denticola were detected using 16SrRNA-based PCR. The clonal similarities of the bacteria were detected in the samples which the same bacteria had been detected in each samples of the same child. After DNA sequencing, clonal similarity was determined by 16SrRNA gene clone library analysis. The sequences from each clone were compared with similar sequences of reference organisms by FASTA search. RESULTS: T. denticola was detected only in four (20%) saliva and in one (5%) nasopharyngeal sample. F. nucleatum was detected in 11 (55%) saliva, eight (40%) nasopharyngeal and six (30%) middle ear effusion samples. Sequences from F.nucleatum clones derived from three different anatomic sites within patients were similar in 33% of OME patients, indicating their genetic relatedness. CONCLUSIONS: Bacteria involved in this process most likely originate from the oropharynx since they show a close genetic relatedness with their oropharyngeal counterparts.

Antibacterial effects of saliva substitutes containing lysozyme or lactoferrin against Streptococcus mutans.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the antibacterial effects of different saliva-substitutes-containing-lysozyme(LYZ) or-lactoferrin(LF) on Streptococcus mutans(S. mutans) in comparison with human saliva. DESIGN: In vitro wound-healing assay was performed with L929 mouse fibroblast cell line by using various concentrations of LYZ and LF to determine optimum concentrations and to confirm do not show any cytotoxicity of proteins according to cell culture studies. Antibacterial effect was assessed by determining Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations for all groups on S.mutans. Bacterial adhesion of S. mutans for 4 h on hydroxyapatite(HAP) discs after application of different saliva substitutes was evaluated. The formulations were:saliva-substitute(Group SS);saliva-substitute-containing-Lactoferrin(Group SSLF);saliva-substitute-containing-Lysozyme(Group SSLYZ). Human saliva was control group(Group HS). RESULTS: In vitro wound healing assay results showed that, when added into the cell culture media, LYZ and LF significantly increase 48 -h scratch wound closure compared to the cell culture media(p < 0.0001). At the end of second day, samples treated with both between 2.5-100 µg/mL LF and 5-200 µg/mL LYZ were found to have significant wound healing effect(p < 001). It was observed that saliva-substitutes-containing-LYZ or-LF had antibacterial effects on S.mutans. Bacterial adhesion on HAP discs was observed significantly higher in control group than in study groups. The amount of adhered S. mutans was significantly higher in Group SS than other study groups(p < 0.0001). However, no statistically significant difference was found between the number of bacteria adhered to HAP discs between SSLYZ and SSLF groups(p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The study of cell viability and wound healing was great significance in the optimum concentrations of LYZ and LF. Among formulations, saliva-substitutes-containing-LYZ or-LF exhibited higher inhibitory effect on S.mutans.

Oral status and Candida colonization in patients with Sjögren's Syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the oral status, salivary flow rate, Candida carriage in saliva, and prevalence of Candida albicans colonization in several areas of the mouth in patients with primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome as opposed to those of healthy subjects. STUDY DESIGN: Thirty-seven patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS), [14 patients with primary SS (SS-1) and 23 patients with secondary SS (SS-2)], along with 37 healthy controls were examined in regard to number of teeth, pro-bing pocket depth (PPD), approximal plaque index (API), bleeding on probing (BOP), presence of prosthetic appliances and smoking habits. Salivary flow rate (SFR), Candida carriage in saliva, presence of Candida albicans colonization on buccal, angular, palatal and sulcular areas, on dentures and on the tongue's dorsal surface were determined. Statistical analyses were performed using the 2-tailed Fisher exact and Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was found between SS-1 and SS-2 groups based on the parameters analysed. Statistically significant differences were observed between patients with SS and healthy subjects in terms of SFR, oral signs and symptoms, API, BOP, C. albicans colonization on tongue and buccal area, and Candida carriage in saliva. In the gingival crevicular fluid positive C. albicans colonization was found in only one subject of SS subgroup. CONCLUSIONS: SS patients carry a higher risk of having periodontitis and are more predisposed to develop candidiasis. C. albicans is scarcely detected in gingival crevicular fluid despite high scores on C. albicans colonization in different areas of the oral cavity in SS patients.

An atypical form of necrotizing periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis/periodontitis are considered necrotizing periodontal diseases. This case report presents an atypical form of necrotizing periodontitis, which does not fit into this classification. METHODS: A 12-year-old child was referred to our clinic for gingival inflammation, extensive alveolar bone loss, and tooth mobility. Clinical and microbiologic examinations were carried out, and radiographs were taken. Clinical examination revealed soft and hard tissue destruction up to the mucogingival junction at the right maxillary premolar and mandibular incisors. Unusual infections or abnormalities in systemic functions were not detected through clinical and laboratory evaluations made at the Pediatrics Department, Istanbul University. Although an intensive established treatment protocol for necrotizing periodontitis was completed, management of long-standing health conditions could not be achieved because of recurrence of the disease, which caused us to repeat this treatment protocol at short intervals. RESULTS: Investigation led to a diagnosis of an atypical form of necrotizing periodontitis because the disease had a recurrent acute phase even under a standard treatment protocol. CONCLUSIONS: Our patient exhibits an unusual, necrotizing form of periodontal disease. The reason for the rapid rate of periodontal disease progression remains unclear.

Salivary detection of periodontopathic bacteria and periodontal health status in dental students.

OBJECTIVE: Saliva may become a potential source of contamination through vertical and horizontal transmissions as well as cross-infections. This study aims to use saliva as a screening tool to detect putative periodontal pathogens in a young population with fairly good oral hygiene. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Stimulated saliva samples were obtained from 134 dental students (20.5+/-1 years, range 18-22 years). Among those, 77 subjects also completed a periodontal examination including attachment loss, modified dental, gingival and plaque indices (AL, mDI, GI and PI). The test bacteria were identified using a 16S rRNA-based PCR detection method. RESULTS: One or more of the test bacteria was found in 67% of the subjects. Prevotella nigrescens was detected as single bacterium in 16% of the subjects followed by Treponema denticola (4%), Porphyromonas gingivalis (2%), Aggregatibacter (formerly Actinobacillus) actinomycetemcomitans (1%) and Tannerella forsythia (1%). Two or more pathogens were detected in 42% of the subjects. Clinical examination revealed health with no attachment loss (AL) in 84% of the students. In no AL group, 38% of the students were pathogen free while this was 25% for students in localized AL group (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant association between the detection of salivary periodontal pathogen in general and higher PI (p=0.018) and GI (p=0.043). CONCLUSION: Within the limits of this study, it is possible to detect all six periodontal pathogens in the saliva of dental students. Although a correlation can be observed between the presence of salivary periodontal pathogen and clinical signs of inflammation such as plaque accumulation and gingival bleeding, detection of specific bacteria in saliva is not related to the presence of localized AL based on the presented study population.

Oral colonization by Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 55730 after exposure to probiotics.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 55730 can be detected in the oral cavity after discontinuation of administration of a product prepared with this bacterium. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study consisted of three 2-week periods: clearance period, intervention period, and post-treatment period. Twenty-five volunteers consumed a chewable tablet of L. reuteri ATCC 55730 (10(8) cfu/tablet) during a 14-day trial period. Saliva samples were collected and cultured onto MRS agar after a clearance period of 2 weeks and then daily after a 2-week intervention period for as long as L. reuteri was found. Lactobacillus reuteri colonies were analysed in saliva samples. The analysis was performed using selective media for L. reuteri followed by confirmation using the specific detection of reuterin produced by L. reuteri. RESULTS: The number of L. reuteri carriers decreased gradually, and after 1 week only 8% of the subjects harboured the bacterium. After 5 weeks, L. reuteri was not detected in any of the subjects. CONCLUSION: Consuming L. reuteri for 2 weeks does not seem to be sufficient for permanent colonization of L. reuteri in the oral cavity.