Abstract
Tonsilloliths are a potential cause of oral malodor. In this study, microbial profiles and composition of tonsilloliths were determined using culture-independent molecular methods and scanning electron microscopy. 16S ribosomal RNA bacterial genes (16S rDNAs) isolated from tonsilloliths of 6 individuals were amplified by PCR and cloned into Escherichia coli. Partial 16S rDNA sequences of approximately 600 bases of cloned inserts were used to determine species identity by comparison with sequences of known species. Characteristics of bacteria on the surface and inside the tonsillolith were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Anaerobic bacteria detected in tonsilloliths belonged to the genera Eubacterium, Fusobacterium, Megasphaera, Porphyromonas, Prevotella, Selenomonas and Tannerella, all of which appear to be associated with production of volatile sulfur compounds. Electron microscopy revealed cocci and rods on the surface and rods predominating inside the tonsilloliths. These results support the tonsillolith as an origin of oral malodor.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.