Studies on the possible aetiological role of different Candida species in pathogenesis of dentine caries by monitoring the calcium release from tooth particles

Abstract

An in vitro model has been developed for study of cariogenic potential of different Candida species. Slices were prepared from the root of extracted healthy teeth. These disks were covered with inert material, only the central hole, i.e. the root canal dentin surface remained uncovered. These preparates with free root dentin surfaces were incubated in Sabouraud medium in the presence of six-six Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, Candida inconspicua and Candida norvegensis strains. The calcium release was detected for 15 days. Two types of release could be distinguished. C. albicans deliberated calcium more aggressively (type "A" curve), while other Candidas were characterized by less expressed calcium releasing capacity (type "B" curve). Curves type "A" and "B" were divided into four steps in order to characterize more precisely the different dynamics of calcium release. Analyses of the different steps also suggested the more aggressive behaviour of C. albicans. Our results indicate that in addition to cariogenic role of different bacteria, fungi may also actively take part in the dentinal caries progress.

Candida biome of severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) and its cariogenic virulence traits

“…To evaluate the acidogenicity of the 35 clinical isolates of Candida species, in terms of degrading the mineralized components of the tooth structure, a calcium-release assay was performed, according to Nikawa et al [31] and Szabo et al [32], with some modifications. Acidogenicity was concomitantly evaluated by pH measurements of the incubating media.…”

Evaluation of caries-associated virulence of biofilms from Candida albicans isolated from saliva of pediatric patients with sickle-cell anemia

“…Nikawa, et al 22 (2003) demonstrated that the capacity of C. albicans to dissolve hydroxyapatite is nearly 20 times greater than S. mutans . Recently, Szabó, et al 29 (2014) demonstrated that Candida spp. are able to dissolve dentine and release calcium to the medium at different rates.…”

“…The biofilm matrix of C. albicans is mainly composed by β 1,3-glucan that builds up its structure, provides antifungal resistance and also provides sites for GtfB activity in dual species biofilms with S. mutans 9 . Therefore, the greater quantity of polysaccharides observed in C. albicans biofilms from sickle-cell anemia patients characterizes the formation of a denser and thicker biofilm 5 , 6 , which would enhance the adherence of microorganisms and would have a greater resistance to antimicrobial drugs penetration 3 , 7 , 9 , 29 . However, the impact of the higher amount of extracellular polysaccharides on biofilm thickness and on antimicrobial resistance should be assessed further.…”

“…in carious lesions. Recent studies are demonstrating that this yeast plays an important role in the etiology of caries 3 , 16 , 29 . The present results show that C. albicans is a potentially cariogenic microorganism due to the high concentrations of acid, extracellular polysaccharides and proteins produced in biofilms.…”

“…It is able to secrete organic acids and reduce the salivary pH to a value lower than that produced by Streptococcus mutans 15 , 17 . The results from a recent study demonstrate its participation in dental caries etiology 3 , 9 , 29 .…”