The use of the microDent® test in diabetic patients

It is generally accepted that, the periodontitis is initated by establishment of specific subgingival bacterial flora. Periodontopathogenic bacteria activate inflammatory mechanisms within the periodontal tissue through the production of toxins. The degree of this response depends on the general health of the patients. Risk factors such as diabetes mellitus can negatively influence the progression of periodontal disease. Choice of medication depends on the composition of the subgingival flora and the clinical manifestation of the periodontal disease. These marker species can be detected with the microDent®test. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine in patients with type 1. diabetes mellitus the correlation between periodontal condition and presence periodontopathogenic bacteria, employs probes for A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, B. forsythus and T. denticola. Method: 108 plaque samples obtained from periodontal pockets patients with type 1. diabetes mellitus. For the assessment of the periodontal condition the CPITN index was used. The microDent®test is molecular biological diagnostic device. Since it is based on the analysis of nucleic acids, there is no need for viable bacteria to perform the test and no special precautions are required during transport. Results: In diabetic patients correlation was observed concerning the intensity of gingivitis, periodontitis and the prevalence of the periodontopathogenic bacteria. The most prevalent bacterium was found Bacteroides Forsythus (11. 11%) in patients only have gingivitis, but in periodontitis it was Treponema denticola (75. 92%). Conclusion: Performing the microDent®test result proving the presence of specific periodontopathogenic bacterial species. Antibiotics should be applied, to raise the effectiveness and active tackle of the progression of the gingivitis or periodontitis in diabetic patients.