Effect of minimally invasive restorations on microorganism count in the oral cavity of a patient with early childhood caries

Abstract

The effect of minimally invasive restorations on the microorganism count in the oral cavity of children with early childhood caries (ECC) has been only briefly discussed in the literature. This study presents the case of a child with ECC who was treated using a minimally invasive restorative approach and the patient's salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus spp. and Candida spp. were recorded throughout the treatment. In addition, a detailed discussion on the role of these microorganisms in the development of ECC is also presented. Included minimally invasive techniques such as ART and removal of caries with ultrasound. The whole unstimulated saliva samples of the patient were inoculated in culture media for microbial count. A 6-monthly review was achieved for a period of 1year. The microbiological data were statistically analysed and a significant reduction (ANOVA, p<0.05) of all microorganisms studied were recorded at the end of the treatment. The therapy used in this case and the salivary microorganism levels reported at the end of the treatment showed that minimally invasive restorative techniques were effective in controlling oral microorganisms involved in ECC.