Quantitative detection of <i>Streptococcus mutans</i> from saliva using FTA<sup>TM</sup> elute cards and real-time polymerase chain reaction

Abstract

Dental caries is a localized, transmissible, pathological infection process that ends up in the destruction of hard dental tissue. Numerous reports have shown the close relationship between salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans and dental caries. As S. mutans, is considered to be the principle etiological agent of dental caries, the development of a quick and convenient method for detection and quantification of these bacteria from patient saliva samples would simplify diagnosis and treatment. The purpose of this study was to compare a new means of quantifying bacteria using FTA TM Elute cards and Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction to a conventional culture-based assay using oral S. mutans as a model sample. A total of 60 different saliva samples were investigated. The results show a significant negative correlation between the two methods, with a correlation coefficient of −0.577 (Spearman's Correlation) and p < 0.01. The method demonstrates a high sensitivity, specificity and reliable quantitative results, covering a large range of bacterial concentrations.

Caries activity and ph level changes after fluoride varnish and casein phosphopeptides-amorphous calcium phosphate application on children's saliva

“…The caries activities test was performed by assessing each sample before and after treatment using qPCR; the data were then converted into log CFU/mL using a standard curve. [ 16 ]…”

“…The study results indicate that intensive treatment with a slow-releasing fluoride varnish is promising in increasing patients' saliva pH and slowing the demineralization of teeth. [ 16 ] Patil found that fluoride varnish releases a large amount of fluoride, thereby significantly enhancing the remineralization process and reducing caries. [ 18 ] The other treatment used in this research was CPP-ACP.…”