Document Type : Original Articles

Abstract

Introduction: Few research studies have evaluated cariogenicity and cariogenic bacteria in adults. Furthermore, there is limited and conflicting data on the effect of dental care level (restorative index) on salivary counts of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacilli and caries experience in adults with a high dental care level. Materials and Methods: Eighty adult volunteers who had not used Xylitol chewing gums, probiotic products, systemic antibiotics and local fluoride for a period of four weeks before saliva sampling participated in the present study. The subjects filled out a questionnaire about demographic information, educational level, occupation and oral health habits. D1,2MFT Index was recorded by clinical examinations. Saliva sampling was performed to determine bacterial counts. Results: A statistically significant relationship was noted between salivary Streptococcus mutans Lactobacilli counts and caries experience (p value < 0.05). Conclusion: Under the limits of the present study, it was concluded that there is a relationship between salivary Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacilli counts and D1,2MFT index in adults with a high dental care level. It seemed that although the highest D1,2MFT component was related to the F component, the salivary bacterial flora counts are high.   Key words: Dental care, Dental caries, DMFT index, Restorative index, Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacilli.