Candida albicans and tooth decay in children with pyelonephritis

Abstract

Clinical investigations show that alongside Streptococcus m utans , a considerable concentration of Candida albicans is often found in the dental biofilm of toddlers suffering from early childhood caries. Based on some studies, the identification of Candida species in oral cavity is in positive correlation to poor oral hygiene status and abundant carbohydrate consumption. The caries-provoking potential of these species is associated with the acid-producing effect of their heterofermentative characteristics. Candida infection in the oral cavity may be a potential predictor of a tooth decay process in children. The aim of this study is to evaluate the interrelations between Candida albicans and caries in children with diagnosed pyelonephritis. In the investigation are included children with diagnosed pyelonephritis and healthy participants of the same age. Microbiological tests and epidemiological research are performed. Statistical methods are applied. In 4.17% of the patients with the diagnosis of pyelonephritis the test for the presence of Candida albicans in the oral cavity shows positive results. The Pearson`s correlation coefficient examining the indicators of Candida albicans and dft amounts to 0.215. There is a slight positive correlation between these indicators. It can be concluded that these microorganisms are not a definitive predisposing factor for initiation and progression of tooth decay among children with pyelonephritis and healthy controls.