• Journal of the korean academy of Pediatric Dentistry
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• v.44 no.3
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• pp.298-305
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• 2017

This study aimed to compare chair-side test results for caries risk assessment and evaluate how well the tests reflect caries experience. The study was conducted on children aged < 6 years in primary dentition. Dental examination of children was conducted to determine the dmft index and subjects were divided into two groups : group I (dmft < 6), group II (dmft > 6). This study used four kinds of test kits (Plaque-check PH kit, Saliva-check buffer kit, Saliva-check mutans kit, Cytoperio analysis system). Saliva buffer capacity was significantly low in the high caries experience group (dmft > 6) and correlated with dmft index. Saliva pH level correlated significantly with saliva buffer capacity. The results showed that plaque pH and saliva pH levels had no correlation with dmft index. The Streptococcus mutans level measured by using the Saliva-check mutans and Cytoperio analysis system did not correlate with dmft index.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.40 no.2
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• pp.95-105
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• 2010

Objective: To identify clinical, salivary, and bacterial changes during orthodontic treatment with follow-up to 24 months. Methods: In 30 patients, clinical (decayed, missing, and filled surfaces [DMFS], O'Leary's plaque index, and plaque pH), salivary (unstimulated and stimulated saliva, buffer capacity, pH, and occult blood), and bacterial (Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus) markers were evaluated. A questionnaire was employed to evaluate their hygienic-dietary habits. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, logistic regression and Spearman's correlation. Results: DMFS increased significantly, whereas the plaque index diminished, plaque pH was more acidic (p = 0.23), and unstimulated salivary flow showed significant differences during the treatment (p = 0.013). Stimulated saliva flow increased in females after the placement of appliances; buffer capacity was diminished in males during the therapy; salivary pH remained at basal values. Bacterial levels and occult blood increased to high-risk levels and were not statistically significant different between genders (p > 0.05). Two major relationships were confirmed: initial plaque with use of dental aids (r = 0.429; p = 0.018) and final DMFS with unstimulated salivary flow (r = -0.372; p = 0.043). Conclusions: The increase in retentive surfaces increased the bacterial levels, plaque pH became acidified, and gingival damage was greater. Buffer capacity was altered but maintained a healthy salivary pH during the treatment.

• Journal of dental hygiene science
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• v.1 no.1
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• pp.7-11
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• 2001

Streptococcus mutans is one of the primary bacteria that cause dental caries which further result in plaque build up. Acid production resulted from carbohydrate metabolism can threaten survival of the bacteria. However some populations of S. mutans which are exposed to low acidic condition for a period of time would develop resistance and tolerance of cells to acidity that will enhance the chance of survival. Similar acid tolerances has been reported in case of Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium, E. coli, Shigella flexneri. These acid tolerance responses(ATR) have been evolved in a similar manner as S. mutans. The protein produced in acidic condition has been proven to be important for ATR and confirmed by using chloramphenicol procedure. We hypothesize here that proteins synthesized in response to acid shock and other elements are important for ATR of cells. In this study we have confirmed that S. mutans developed acid tolerance and resistance against anaerobic condition. Mutational DNA analysis responsible for acid tolerance should be additionally required in the future. Since the development of acid tolerance that is essential for the survival of S. mutans and development of dental caries, ATR of S. mutans shoule be farther to prevent dental caries.