Prevotella intermedia, an orthodontic point of view

Abstract

Introduction: Prevotella intermedia is a gram-negative obligate anaerobic bacterium that participates in the development of periodontal disease and is present in the bacterial biofilm of patients with fixed appliances. Objective:To analyze the literature on virulence factors, diagnostic methods, treatment and relationship with other diseases of Prevotella intermedia in orthodontic patients. Methodology: Articles on the subject published in the databases PubMed, EBSCO, Scopus, and Web of Science with publication dates in the last 5 years were analyzed. The search was carried out with the keywords: "Prevotella intermedia", "dentistry", "orthodontics", "virulence factors", "diagnostic methods", "treatment" and "systemic diseases". Results: INP A protease is one of the most important virulence factors of the bacterium. The type of orthodontic appliance influences the alteration of the patient's subgingival microbiota and PCR is the most commonly used method for the detection of these microbial agents. Scaling and root planning remain the most effective treatment for periodontal disease. The presence of Prevotella intermedia may aggravate systemic diseases present in patients. Conclusions:The biofilm of microbial agents in orthodontic patients favours the development of periodontal disease, due to the retentive areas of fixed appliances. It is therefore essential to maintain good oral hygiene, especially during orthodontic treatment.