Research progress of the relationship between Candida albicans and dental caries

Abstract

Candida albicans (Ca) is an important opportunistic pathogenic fungus found in the oral cavity, which plays an important role in oral microecological balance, and often interacting with other bacteria including Streptococcus mutans (Sm). Meanwhile, the characteristics of Ca such as adhesion, acidogenicity, aciduric nature and the ability to produce collagenolytic proteinases indicate its latent cariogenic potential. This review summarizes the research progress of the detectable rate of Ca in caries, its cariogenic potential and the interaction with Sm and other oral bacteria, in order to extend the understanding of pathogenesis of dental caries and to contribute new therapeutic and preventive strategies for dental caries.