Mutans streptococci, lactobacilli in saliva and acidity from organismsin dental plaque: changes after restorative treatment

The effect of restorative dental treatment was evaluated on mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in

saliva, as well as acid production by plaque bacteria. We used semiquantitative culture kits at time

points up to 6 months following treatment. Changes in eating habits and oral hygiene during the study

period were ruled out using a questionnaire. Mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, and acidity all had

decreased significantly at 1 week after treatment. Acidity often was the first variable to return to

pretreatment levels, while abundant at 6 than 3 months. Lactobacilli showed the most durable response

to treatment. Restorative treatment achieves import temporary decreases in caries-associated bacteria,

especially lactobacilli, without influence from potentially relevant behavioral changes. In addition,

follow up examinations at relatively long intervals at least 3 month would appear most effective for

dental health management.

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