Cariogenic Microorganisms Research Articles

Investigation of Genetic Variants of Alox12 (rs9904779) Gene in Dental Caries

Background: Dental caries is a biofilm-mediated disease driven by dietary sugars that reduce pH and promote cariogenic microorganisms. Caries result from a complex interplay of behaviour, environmental, genetic, and physiological factors, with the immune response and bacterial activity contributing to enamel demineralization and cavity formation. Genetic factors, such as SNPs, also influence caries susceptibility, impacting enamel hardness and inflammatory responses. Aim: This study aims to explore the association between the Alox12 gene variant, rs9904779, and the susceptibility to dental caries. Methods: Patients were recruited following ethical approval and informed consent. Saliva samples were collected and grouped by DMFT index, and genomic DNA was extracted. PCR analysis focused on Alox12 gene polymorphism with the 223bp product and RFLP. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info software, calculating genotype-risk associations and a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Chi-square testing assessed genotype and allele distributions across groups. Results: An SNP analysis of Alox12 was conducted to assess the susceptibility of dental caries. In caries patients, CC genotype was most prevalent (42%), while CG was higher in controls (52%). Genotype distribution deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in caries (p < 0.05) but not in controls (p > 0.05). The caries group had a higher prevalence of the C allele, while the CG heterozygote was more frequent in controls (OR = 0.64, p = 0.32). Conclusion: This SNP analysis suggests that the Alox12 gene variant rs9904779 may be a significant predictor for the development of dental caries, highlighting its potential as a genetic marker for susceptibility to the disease.

Oral Microbiome Dynamics in Treated Childhood Caries: A Comparative Study.

Dental caries is a multifactorial disease that results from interactions of susceptible host, cariogenic microorganisms, and fermentable carbohydrate sources. Our study explored oral microbiome shifts in children before and after dental treatment. Initial saliva samples were collected from caries free, moderate caries, and severe caries children based on the decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (DMFT/dmft) index. After three months of dental treatment, second saliva samples were gathered from the moderate and severe caries groups. The microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene-based high-throughput sequencing. Most children with caries were between seven and eight years of age (40%), from middle-income group families (61%), highly educated parents (18% secondary level and 75% tertiary level) with good oral hygiene practices. There was a significant increase in alpha-diversity post-dental intervention. Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria were abundant across all samples. Post-treatment, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes significantly decreased (p < 0.05) while Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, Spirochaetota, and Synergistota significantly increased (p < 0.05). At genus level, a decreased trend was seen in Streptococcus, Prevotella_7, and Rothia and an increased trend was seen in Fusobacterium, Neisseria, Haemophilus, and Leptotrichia, but was not statistically significant. This study on Malaysian children highlights that dental caries are influenced by factors like age, socioeconomic status, and diet, with oral microbiome diversity increasing post-treatment, though some harmful bacteria persist, indicating a need for targeted oral health education and further research on probiotics' role in caries prevention.

INFLUENCE OF FLUORIDE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND WORKER’S HEALTH – LITERATURE REVIEW

Dental caries is a multifactorial disease that affects a large part of the world's population. Can be prevented by various means and methods, including the use of fluoridated mouthwashes, topical fluoride, fluoridated toothpaste and fluoridation of public water supplies for human consumption. Fluoride has been shown to be a therapeutic agent that modulates dental caries. Frequent contact between patients and small concentrations of fluoride hinders demineralization and activates remineralization, in addition to inhibiting cariogenic microorganisms. The oral health of workers is directly related to the health of the population, since they are part of this context and suffer from the same problems that occur in the environment in which they live. Since workers are the agents who convert work activity into profits for the employer, a detailed and complete vision addressing prevention is extremely important, as this is a way to reduce absenteeism and keep workers in their jobs, achieving better performance of their activities. This bibliographic review aims to analyze fluoride in its various forms and evaluate its anti-cariogenic power for workers, with the aim of preventing cavities and providing well-being, quality of life and greater productivity to them. Based on the data analyzed, it is concluded that fluoride is an effective and inexpensive measure to prevent the appearance of cavities and that due to the large size of Brazil and its socioeconomic difficulties, fluoridated toothpaste associated with assisted brushing, with topical fluoride applications, prove to be the best measures to prevent cavities and absenteeism, consequently improving public health indices. This is one of the most relevant public policies, which is in fact underestimated and which can change the reality of Brazil, reducing high government costs and promoting the quality of life of the population, which suffers from oral problems, which can affect the entire organism, causing a series of other ailments, which should be avoided by adopting preventive measures on a permanent basis.

The impact of a-tomatine on shear bonding strength in different dentin types and on cariogenic microorganisms: an in vitro and in silico study

IntroductionThe objective of this study is to investigate the shear bonding strength of a glycoalkaloid, also a novel matrix metalloproteinase enzyme known as α-tomatine, on two different surfaces of dentin (sound & caries-affected) and its efficacy against cariogenic microorganisms using in vitro and in silico methods.MethodsThe effect of a-tomatine at different concentrations (0.75 / 1 / 1.5 µM) on shear bonding strength in caries-affected and sound dentin was also investigated (n = 10; each per subgroup). The analysis of shear bonding and failure tests was conducted after a 24-hour storage period. Fracture surfaces were examined under a scanning electron microscope. A stock solution 3 mM of a-tomatine was prepared for antimicrobial evaluation. Antimicrobial activities of the agents against Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175, Lactobacillus casei ATCC 4646, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231 standard strains were investigated by microdilution method. In addition, through the method of molecular docking and dynamic analysis, the affinity of a-tomatine for certain enzymes of these microorganisms was examined.ResultsThe pretreatment agent and dentin type significantly influenced shear bonding strength values (p < 0.05). As the molarity of a-tomatine increased, the bonding value decreased in sound dentin, while the opposite was true in caries-affected dentin. According to molecular docking and dynamic analysis, the highest affinity was observed in L. casei’s signaling protein. Microdilution assays revealed a-tomatine to exhibit fungicidal activity against C. albicans and bacteriostatic effects against S. mutans. No antimicrobial effect was observed on L. casei.Conclusiona-tomatine demonstrates a positive impact by serving as both a pretreatment agent for bonding strength and an inhibitor against certain cariogenic microorganisms.

EvoraPlus Oral Probiotic Tablet: New paradigm for Caries Prevention in Children.

According to the World Health Organization, probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host. The use of oral probiotics in children to improve oral health may lead to nonpathogenic bacteria replacing cariogenic bacteria. The Evora Plus oral probiotics tablet is the first such oral probiotics tablet containing a proprietary blend of three select species of naturally occurring oral bacteria, each with a specific function for maintaining a healthy oral environment. These strains include Streptococcus oralis KJ3sm, Streptococcus uberis KJ2sm, and Streptococcus rattus JH145. To compare the levels of salivary total bacterial count, salivary pH levels, and salivary S. mutans count before and after consumption of the Evora Plus oral probiotic tablet. Around 40 caries-free schoolchildren from Daksh International School, Gadarwara, Madhya Pradesh, India, aged 12-14 years, were selected and divided equally into two groups-group A, in which total salivary bacterial count and pH were evaluated, and group B, in which salivary S. mutans count and pH were evaluated. These groups were further subdivided into group A1 and group B1, which served as the control groups not receiving the Evora Plus oral probiotic tablet, and group A2 and group B2, which were the test groups consuming the Evora Plus oral probiotic tablet for 30 days. Assessment of salivary samples for total bacterial count was done at baseline and after 30 days for groups A1 and B1. Salivary pH estimation was done at baseline and after 30 days for the entire group, and salivary S. mutans count was done at baseline and after 30 days for groups A2 and B2. Salivary pH level was checked using a digital pH meter; nutrient agar was used for salivary total bacterial count, while Mitis salivarius bacitracin agar was used for salivary S. mutans count. The number of colonies was counted and subjected to statistical analysis using unpaired and paired Student's t-test. The study showed a significant reduction in salivary total bacterial count and salivary S. mutans counts, as well as a significant increase in salivary pH after 30 days in the Evora Plus oral probiotic group compared with the group not receiving the Evora Plus oral probiotic tablet. Cariogenic microorganisms could be reduced by an oral probiotic formulation. Thus, the use of the Evora Plus oral probiotic tablet could be recommended for the prevention of enamel demineralization. Mishra A, Saurabh S. EvoraPlus Oral Probiotic Tablet: New paradigm for Caries Prevention in Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(9):1044-1048.

Antimicrobial Efficacy of Alpinia officinale extracts against Oral Microorganism - An In-vitro Study

Aim: To assess the antimicrobial activity of Alpinia officinale extract against S. mutans, lactobacillus, and C. albicans. Methodology: The rhizome of Alpinia officinale were identified, collected, washed, shade dried, and then ground to prepare a fine powder. 50gm of the prepared powder was dissolved in 250ml of the following solvents ethanol, acetone, ethyl acetate, chloroform and methanol at 40-50℃ for 6h. The bacterial and fungal isolates of S. mutans, Lactobacillus and C. albicans were collected and prepared. Antimicrobial and antifungal activity of extracts against S. mutans, lactobacillus and C. albicans were determined by the Disc diffusion method. Microdilution of extracts were prepared with 2X stock concentration to obtain 100 to 1.5 microgram per ml of nutrient broth to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration. Results: The most effective extract was ethanol extract followed by ethyl acetate and methanol extracts. There was substantial activity by methanol and ethyl acetate extracts. The MICs of different concentrations of ethanol extracts were found to be 1.5,3.1 and 12.5 µg/mL for S.mutans, L.acidophilus, and C.albicans respectively. Conclusion: The present study concluded that A. officinale has potential antimicrobial activities for cariogenic microorganisms.

Developing a novel calcium silver zeolite for caries management

ObjectiveTo develop a novel calcium silver zeolite (Ca-Ag-Zeo) and assess its biocompatibility, physiochemical properties and antimicrobial effects.MethodsCa-Ag-Zeo was synthesized using ion-exchange method with calcium chloride, silver nitrate and Zeolite X (Zeo). Silver zeolite X (Ag-Zeo) and Zeo were set as control. The chemical structure, morphology, crystal structure and elemental composition of Ca-Ag-Zeo was characterized by X-ray diffraction spectrum, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. Its biocompatibility on the human gingival fibroblasts was assessed by cell counting kit-8 assay. Its physiochemical properties were determined by the released calcium and silver ion using Inductive Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometry for up to 12 weeks. The antimicrobial properties on Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, and Candida albicans were assessed by minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) or minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) assay.ResultsCa-Ag-Zeo with a hexagonal cage structure was synthesized. As for biocompatibility, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (± SD in mg/mL) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo in human gingival fibroblasts were 0.52 ± 0.05, 0.15 ± 0.01 and 3.35 ± 0.58, respectively (Zeo > Ca-Ag-Zeo > Ag-Zeo; p < 0.05). As for physiochemical properties, the accumulated ion release (± SD in mg) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo were 0.011 ± 0.003, 0 and 0 for calcium ion, respectively (Ca-Ag-Zeo > Ag-Zeo, Zeo; p < 0.001), and 0.213 ± 0.032, 0.209 ± 0.019 and 0 for silver ion, respectively (Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo > Zeo; p < 0.001). As for anti-microbial ability, the MBC/MFC (mg/mL) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo were 32, 16 and > 256 against Streptococcus mutans; 32, 16, > 256 against Lactobacillus acidophilus; 16, 16, and 256 against Lactobacillus casei; 0.25, 0.125; and 2, 1, > 256 against Candida albicans, respectively.ConclusionA novel Ca-Ag-Zeo was developed. It presented better biocompatibility compared to Ag-Zeo. It released calcium and silver ions sustainably, and it could inhibit the growth of common cariogenic microorganisms.

Microbiological aspects of dental health in children with osteogenesis imperfecta

Background. Oral microbiome actively affects the child’s health and is an available tool for diagnosing and predic­ting dental and systemic diseases. Studying the colonization of the oral cavity by cariogenic and periodontopathogenic bacteria, given the congenital, genetically determined decrease in the quality of collagen in children with osteogenesis imperfecta, is an urgent problem. The purpose of the study was to determine the level of cariogenic and periodontopathogenic microorganisms in the oral cavity of children with osteogenesis imperfecta. Materials and methods. Clinical studies were conducted with the participation of children aged 2 to 17 years diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta, in whom the level of contamination of the oral cavity with cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacter spp. and periodontal pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Treponema denticola, Bacteroides forsythus, Prevotella intermedia was determined. Results. All children with osteogenesis imperfecta were found to have a borderline high level of Streptococcus mutans contamination and the presence of periodontal pathogens of the first order, mainly in the form of monocultures in preclinical concentration, which, against the background of low collagen quality, indicates a sufficiently high risk of developing ­caries and periodontal diseases.

An In Vitro and In Silico Study of Luteolin-Loaded Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Enhancing Bioactivity and Efficacy for Advanced Therapeutic Applications Against Cariogenic Microorganisms.

Introduction Recent studies have explored alternative methods to enhance caries prevention and treatment.Luteolin compound has been noted for its antimicrobial properties, while zinc nanoparticles (Zn NPs) are recognized for their potent antibacterial effects. This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial efficacy of luteolin-loaded Zn oxide NPs (Luteo-ZnONPs) against cariogenic bacteria. By combining the biofilm-targeting capabilities of luteolin with the antimicrobial properties of Zn NPs, we aim to explore a novel approach for dental caries management. Methods Luteo-ZnONPswere synthesized and characterized using ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, confirming their successful formation and stability. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), demonstrating effectiveness against cariogenic bacteria such asEscherichia coli,Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus mutans in different concentrations.The agar well plate method was employed to analyze the growth inhibitory effect of Luteo-ZnONPs (50 and 100µg/ml, respectively). Streptomycin (100µg/ml) was used as apositive control. The results (zone of inhibition (ZOI) in millimeter, mm) were represented as mean± standard deviation.One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to detect the significance (p < 0.05) between the groups. Cytotoxicity was analyzed using the3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT)assayagainst MG63 cells, and doxorubicin was used as a positive control.Wilcoxon rank test was used for the statistical method. Gyrase Bwas downloaded from Protein Data Bank (PDB id: 6F86) and docked against luteolin using Autodock software (version 4.2).The binding score was presented as kcal/mol in table format. Results Characterization results showed that UV-vis spectroscopy revealed characteristic peaks, indicating the successful synthesis and stability of Luteo-ZnONPs. FTIRspectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups from luteolin compound interacting with the Zn NPs. It showed effective inhibition againstE. coli on 50µg/ml as 12.45 mm as ZOI and increased with concentration (100 µg/ml as 17.13 mm).It showed minimal ZOI onE. faecalis(8.12, 12.21 on 50 and 100µg/ml, respectively). The cytotoxicity of Luteo-ZnONPs was lesser than doxorubicin on MG63 cells with statistical high significance (p < 0.0014). These results showed thatLuteo-ZnONPs had effective antimicrobial nature againstEnterococcusfamily. Thus, gyrase BfromE. coliwas selected for the molecular docking analysis. The catalytic tunnel in gyrase B (E. coli, PDB: 6F86), influenced by Luteo-ZnONPs, indicated potential for novel, broad-spectrum antimicrobials via selective inhibition at conserved active sites. Conclusion The agar well plate and MIC confirmed that Luteo-ZnONPs exhibited potent antibacterial activity, especiallyat higher concentrations compared to streptomycin.One- way ANOVA demonstrated significant differences in antibacterial efficacy between treatments, validating its superior performance.Its strong interaction onin silicolevel showed the targeted mechanism of action. Luteo-ZnONPs showed lesser toxicity than doxorubicin on MG63 cells. These findings underscore the potential of its broad spectrum antimicrobial nature paving the way for its development into innovative, nontoxic therapeutic solutions.

The effect of antimicrobial peptide-added adhesive resins on shear bond strength and the adhesive remnant index of orthodontic brackets

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of in-vivo produced Nisin which is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) added to adhesive resin on shear bond strength (SBS) and the adhesive remnant index (ARI) of orthodontic brackets.MethodsBacterial AMP was produced by fermentation and the ideal AMP/Bond concentration and antimicrobial efficacy of the mixture were tested. To evaluate the SBS and ARI scores of AMP-added adhesive resins, 80 maxillary premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic purposes were used and randomly assigned into 2 groups (n = 40). Group 1: Control Group (teeth bonded with standard adhesive resin); Group 2: Experimental Group (teeth bonded with AMP-added adhesive resin). Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS package program and applying the Mann-Whitney U and Fisher’s exact tests. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.ResultsNisin synthesized in-vivo from Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis) (ATCC 7962) bacteria was provided to form a homogenous solution at an ideal concentration To find the minimum AMP/Bond mixture ratio that showed maximum antimicrobial activity, AMP and Bond mixtures were tested at various concentration levels between 1/160 and 1/2 (AMP/Bond). As a result, the optimum ratio was determined as 1/40. The antimicrobial efficacy of Nisin-added adhesive resin was tested against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) (ATCC 35,688) and Lactobacillus strains (cariogenic microorganisms). AMP formed a 2.7 cm diameter zone alone, while 1/40 AMP-bond mixture formed a 1.2 cm diameter zone. SBS values of the teeth bonded with Nisin added adhesive (17.49 ± 5.31) were significantly higher than the control group (14.54 ± 4.96) (P = 0.004). According to the four point scale, Nisin added adhesive provided a higher ARI score in favour of the adhesive and tooth compared to the control group (ARI = 3, n = 20).ConclusionsNisin produced from L. lactis (ATCC 7962) had greater antimicrobial effects after mixing with adhesive bond against cariogenic microorganisms S. mutans (ATCC 35,688) and Lactobacillus strains. Nisin added adhesive increased shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets and ARI scores in favor of adhesive & teeth.Clinical relevanceClinicians should take into account that using Nisin-added adhesive resin in orthodontic treatments can provide prophylaxis against tooth decay, especially in patients with poor oral hygiene.

Comparative Evaluation of the Fluoride Releasing Ability and Microbial Attachment of Glass-Hybrid Restorative Material

This study aimed to compare the fluoride-releasing ability and degree of microbial attachment of a newly developed glass-hybrid restorative material (GH) with those of a high-viscosity glass ionomer (HvGIC), resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI), and composite resin (CR). In addition, the correlation between fluoride-releasing ability and microbial attachment between materials was evaluated. Specimens were prepared in a disc shape and divided into 4 groups according to the materials (GH, HvGIC, RMGI, and CR). The fluoride release experiments were performed in each group (n = 15). The amount of fluoride released was measured on days 1, 3, 7, 14, 28, and 42 after storage. For the microbial attachment experiment, 12 specimens were produced per group using &lt;i&gt;Mutans Streptococci&lt;/i&gt; (&lt;i&gt;S.mutans&lt;/i&gt; ), a cariogenic microorganism. &lt;i&gt;S. mutans&lt;/i&gt; was cultured on the specimens for 24 hours, and the number of bacteria was measured. GH had the highest cumulative fluoride release and showed a significant difference when compared with RMGI (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.001) and CR (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.0001). Microbial attachment was the lowest in GH; however, no significant difference was observed between the materials (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.169). There was no significant correlation between fluoride release from materials and microbial attachment (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &gt; 0.05). From this perspective, remineralization of low-mineralized areas could be expected due to the high fluoride release of GH, and the effect of delaying the progression of dental caries could be predicted from the low cariogenic microbial attachment. Therefore, GH might be a useful restorative material for treating immature permanent teeth with hypomineralized enamel. However, further studies are needed about the degree of remineralization of hypomineralized areas after restoration and the capacity to recharge fluoride.

Association between Salivary Hormones, Dental Caries, and Cariogenic Microorganisms during Pregnancy.

Objective: This study aimed to identify the salivary levels of six hormones (progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, thyroxine T3, and triiodothyronine T4) in pregnant women, and to assess the association between salivary hormones, dental caries, and cariogenic microorganisms. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 181 low-income US pregnant women who were in their third trimester. Demographic details, oral hygiene practices, and medical backgrounds were obtained via questionnaires and medical records. Calibrated dentists obtained data on plaque index and caries status through comprehensive oral examinations. Unstimulated saliva was collected 2 h before eating and brushing. Salivary hormones were measured with a multiplex assay. Oral Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Candida albicans (C. albicans) were quantified via colony-forming unit (CFU) counts. A latent model was used to generate clusters of pregnant women based on salivary hormone levels, followed by post-clustering analysis. Factors associated with salivary cariogenic microorganisms were further evaluated via multiple regression analyses. Results: Estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, T3, and T4 in saliva were detectable at rates of 92%, 97%, 77%, 99%, 71%, and 50%, respectively. Three distinct participant clusters (high, intermediate, and low) were identified based on salivary hormone levels. Intermediate-level and high-level clusters had increased numbers of decayed teeth, decayed surfaces, ICDAS scores, and salivary S. mutans and C. albicans, compared to the low-level cluster (p < 0.05). Covariate analysis demonstrated that the high-level cluster was positively associated with salivary carriage of S. mutans (CFU/mL) (p < 0.05). Participants with higher levels of progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, and cortisol were associated with a high carriage status of S. mutans in saliva (>105 CFU/mL) (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrated the feasibility of detecting salivary hormones during pregnancy and revealed the positive association between salivary steroid hormones and cariogenic pathogens.

Microbial Ecology of Scardovia wiggsiae and other oral microbiota in Indian children

Early childhood caries (ECC) has become a significant health problem especially in children bellow 5 years. It has been on the ascending prevalence in many countries. The novel cariogenic bacteria Scardovia wiggsiae were identified to be significantly associated with severe-early childhood caries in the presence as well as in the absence of Streptococcus mutans. The goal of this current study was to analyse the role of Scardovia wiggsiae and other cariogenic microorganisms like Selenomonas noxia, Streptococcus mutens, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Veillonella parvula in Indian children with and without ECC. Children below 72 months were enrolled in the study and are divided into two groups of 50 each. One group consists of 50 children with ECC and other 50 without ECC. The presence of S. wiggsiae, Selenomonas noxia, Streptococcus mutens, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Veillonella parvula was examined by using 16S rRNA-based Real time PCR technique in saliva samples. The prevalence of S. wiggsiae is abundantly seen in children with ECC compared to children without ECC. Children with ECC have significantly higher prevalence (P&lt;0.05) of S. wiggsiae, S. noxia, S. mutans, and F. nucleatum. In this study, higher and equal association rate is observed between S. wiggsiae and S. noxia, and S. wiggsiae and F. nucleatum in children with ECC. The study have demonstrated that not only a single cariogenic bacteria is responsible for ECC, but the population of oral microbiota may support for the development and progression of ECC.

The Associations between Snack Intake and Cariogenic Oral Microorganism Colonization in Young Children of a Low Socioeconomic Status.

Cariogenic microorganisms are crucial pathogens contributing to the development of early childhood caries. Snacks provide fermentable carbohydrates, altering oral pH levels and potentially affecting microorganism colonization. However, the relationship between snack intake and cariogenic microorganisms like Candida and Streptococcus mutans in young children is still unclear. This study aimed to assess this association in a prospective underserved birth cohort. Data from children aged 12 to 24 months, including oral microbial assays and snack intake information, were analyzed. Sweet and non-sweet indices based on the cariogenic potential of 15 snacks/drinks were created. Mixed-effects models were used to assess the associations between sweet and non-sweet indices and S. mutans and Candida carriage. Random forest identified predictive factors of microorganism carriage. Higher non-sweet index scores were linked to increased S. mutans carriage in plaques (OR = 1.67, p = 0.01), potentially strengthening with age. Higher sweet index scores at 12 months were associated with increased Candida carriage, reversing at 24 months. Both indices were top predictors of S. mutans and Candida carriage. These findings underscore the associations between snack intake and cariogenic microorganism carriage and highlight the importance of dietary factors in oral health management for underserved young children with limited access to dental care and healthy foods.

The Synergism of Silver and Fluoride: A New Arsenal in Caries Management

AbstractTopical anticaries agents are non‐invasive methods to control and prevent dental caries. SDF is a fluoride‐based agent added to the arsenal of caries prevention tools. It has got a lot of attention since its introduction in the 1970s because of its ability to prevent and arrest caries, as well as its excellent antibacterial and anti‐plaque action. SDF reduces acid production by microorganisms, decreases the Streptococcus mutans count, biofilm formation, increases enamel resistance, and promotes dentinal tubule obliteration when applied to the dental surface. SDF also assists in the remineralization of dentin. A biannual application of 38% SDF has been effective at preventing dentin demineralization. This “silver bullet” can be seen as an alternative for caries prevention in special health care needs children which is minimally invasive and safe. Along with the advantages, there are some disadvantages, and work has been carried out to explore the use of silver nanoparticles (SNP) as anticaries agents to shield the teeth from aesthetic damage caused by Silver diamine fluoride. SNPs are identified to have the potential to prevent and inhibit dental caries while not discoloring demineralized dental enamel. SNPs have a greater surface area for interaction with microorganisms than other particles, making them more effective antimicrobial agents. Fluoride combined with SNP solution has a synergistic effect that promotes enamel remineralization while also acting as a bactericidal agent against cariogenic microorganisms. This review aims to bring out the various advantages and disadvantages related to the use of SDF and SNPs to aid in future research.

Antibacterial Properties and Shear Bond Strength of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Incorporated into an Orthodontic Adhesive: A Systematic Review.

The present review was conducted to test whether the addition of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) within orthodontic bracket adhesives would alter their properties and assess their antimicrobial activity against cariogenic microorganisms in addition to noteworthy mechanical properties. Using predetermined inclusion criteria, an electronic search was conducted using Dissertations and Thesis Global, the Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus, and Medline/PubMed. Specific terms were utilized while searching the database. Only seven of the 10 included studies assessed shear bond strength (SBS). The mean SBS among the control group varied from 9.43 ± 3.03 MPa to 34.4 ± 6.7 MPa in the included studies, while in the experimental group, it varied from 6.33 ± 1.51 MPa to 25.05 ± 0.5 MPa. Antibacterial activity was assessed in five of the 10 included studies using TiO2 NPs, which could easily diffuse through bacterial media to form the growth inhibition zone. Antibacterial NPs added to orthodontic adhesives at a concentration of 1-5 wt% inhibit bacterial growth and have no effect on bond strength. D Tivanani MVD, Mulakala V, Keerthi VS. Antibacterial Properties and Shear Bond Strength of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Incorporated into an Orthodontic Adhesive: A Systematic Review. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(1):102-108.

Periodontal ligament stem cell-derived exosome-loaded Emodin mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy against cariogenic bacteria

BackgroundThis study was conducted to investigate the efficiency of periodontal ligament (PDL) stem cell-derived exosome-loaded Emodin (Emo@PDL-Exo) in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus as the cariogenic bacteria.Materials and methodsAfter isolating and characterizing PDL-Exo, the study proceeded to prepare and verify the presence of Emo@PDL-Exo. The antimicrobial effect, anti-biofilm activity, and anti-metabolic potency of Emo, PDL-Exo, and Emo@PDL-Exo were then evaluated with and without irradiation of blue laser at a wavelength of 405 ± 10 nm with an output intensity of 150 mW/cm2 for a duration of 60 s. In addition, the study assessed the binding affinity of Emodin with GtfB and SlpA proteins using in silico molecular docking. Eventually, the study examined the generation of endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) and changes in the gene expression levels of gelE and sprE.ResultsThe study found that using Emo@PDL-Exo-mediated aPDT resulted in a significant decrease in L. acidophilus and S. mutans by 4.90 ± 0.36 and 5.07 log10 CFU/mL, respectively (P < 0.05). The study found that using Emo@PDL-Exo for aPDT significantly reduced L. acidophilus and S. mutans biofilms by 44.7% and 50.4%, respectively, compared to untreated biofilms in the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the metabolic activity of L. acidophilus and S. mutans decreased by 58.3% and 71.2%, respectively (P < 0.05). The molecular docking analysis showed strong binding affinities of Emodin with SlpA and GtfB proteins, with docking scores of -7.4 and -8.2 kcal/mol, respectively. The study also found that the aPDT using Emo@PDL-Exo group resulted in the most significant reduction in gene expression of slpA and gtfB, with a decrease of 4.2- and 5.6-folds, respectively, compared to the control group (P < 0.05), likely due to the increased generation of endogenous ROS.DiscussionThe study showed that aPDT using Emo@PDL-Exo can effectively reduce the cell viability, biofilm activity, and metabolic potency of S. mutans and L. acidophilus. aPDT also significantly reduced the expression levels of gtfB and slpA mRNA due to the increased endogenous ROS generation. The findings suggest that Emo@PDL-Exo-mediated aPDT could be a promising antimicrobial approach against cariogenic microorganisms.

Unlocking the potential of probiotic administration in caries management: a systematic review

BackgroundThe use of prebiotics and/or probiotic bacteria with the potential to modulate the oral ecosystem may play an important role in the prevention and management of dental caries. To assess the evidence of the potential of pre/probiotics both in the prevention and treatment of dental caries, we focused on the PICO question “In individuals with caries, after probiotic administration, is there an improvement in outcomes directly related to caries risk and development?“.MethodsAn extensive systematic search was conducted in electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane, to identify articles with relevant data. This systematic review included trials performed in Humans; published in English; including the observation of patients with caries, with clear indication of the probiotic used and measuring the outcomes directly involved with the cariogenic process, including the quantification of bacteria with cariogenic potential. To evaluate the methodological quality of the studies, the critical assessment tool from the Joanna Briggs Institute was used.ResultsEight hundred and fifty articles, potentially relevant, were identified. Following PRISMA guidelines 14 articles were included in this systematic review. Outcomes such as reduction of cariogenic microorganism counts, salivary pH, buffer capacity, and caries activity were assessed. The probiotic most often referred with beneficial results in dental caries outcomes is Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus. Regarding the most used administration vehicle, in studies with positive effects on the caries management, probiotic supplemented milk could be considered the best administration vehicle.ConclusionsEvidence suggests a beneficial effect of probiotic supplemented milk (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus) as an adjuvant for caries prevention and management. However, comparable evidence is scarce and better designed and comparable studies are needed.

Mechanical and microbiological properties of orthodontic resin modified with nanostructured silver vanadate decorated with silver nanoparticles (βAgVO3)

ObjectiveTo investigate the impact of incorporating the antimicrobial nanomaterial β-AgVO3 into orthodontic resin, focusing on degree of conversion, surface characteristics, microhardness, adhesion properties, and antimicrobial activity. MethodsThe 3 M Transbond XT resin underwent modification, resulting in three groups (Control, 2.5% addition, 5% addition) with 20 specimens each. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy assessed monomer conversion. Laser confocal microscopy examined surface roughness, and microhardness was evaluated using Knoop protocols. Shear strength was measured before and after artificial aging on 36 premolar teeth. Microbiological analysis against S. mutans and S. sanguinis was conducted using the agar diffusion method. ResultsDegree of conversion remained unaffected by time (P = 0.797), concentration (P = 0.438), or their interaction (P = 0.187). The 5% group exhibited the lowest surface roughness, differing significantly from the control group (P = 0.045). Microhardness showed no significant differences between concentrations (P = 0.740). Shear strength was highest in the control group (P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in the samples with or without thermocycling (P = 0.759). Microbial analysis revealed concentration-dependent variations, with the 5% group exhibiting the largest inhibition halo (P < 0.001). ConclusionsIncorporating β-AgVO3 at 2.5% and 5% concentrations led to significant differences in surface roughness, adhesion, and antimicrobial activity. Overall, resin modification positively impacted degree of conversion, surface characteristics, microhardness, and antimicrobial activity. Further research is warranted to determine clinically optimal concentrations that maximize antimicrobial benefits while minimizing adverse effects on adhesion properties. Clinical SignificanceIncorporating β-AgVO3 into orthodontic resin could improve patient quality of life by prolonging intervention durability and reducing the impact of cariogenic microorganisms. The study's findings also hold promise for the industry, paving the way for the development of new materials with antimicrobial properties for potential applications in the health sector.

Antibacterial Activity of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) Loaded Lipid-chitosan Hybrid Nanoparticle against Planktonic Microorganisms.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a polyphenol derived from Green Tea, is one of the sources of natural bioactive compounds which are currently being developed as medicinal ingredients. Besides other biological activities, this natural compound exhibits anti-cariogenic effects. However, EGCG has low physical-chemical stability and poor bioavailability. Thus, the purpose of this study was to develop and characterize lipid-chitosan hybrid nanoparticle with EGCG and to evaluate its in vitro activity against cariogenic planktonic microorganisms. Lipid-chitosan hybrid nanoparticle (LCHNP-EGCG) were prepared by emulsion and sonication method in one step and characterized according to diameter, polydispersity index (PdI), zeta potential (ZP), encapsulation efficiency (EE), mucoadhesion capacity and morphology. Strains of Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus and Lactobacillus casei were treated with LCHNP- EGCG, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated. LCHNP-EGCG exhibited a size of 217.3 ± 5.1 nm with a low polydispersity index (0.17) and positive zeta potential indicating the presence of chitosan on the lipid nanoparticle surface (+33.7 mV). The LCHNP-EGCG showed a spherical morphology, high stability and a mucoadhesive property due to the presence of chitosan coating. In addition, the EGCG encapsulation efficiency was 96%. A reduction of almost 15-fold in the MIC and MBC against the strains was observed when EGCG was encapsulated in LCHNP, indicating the potential of EGCG encapsulation in lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles. Taking the results together, the LCHNP-EGCG could be an interesting system to use in dental care due to their nanometric size, mucoadhesive properties high antibacterial activity against relevant planktonic microorganisms.