Contribution of tongue microflora to the development of dental caries

Objectives: Determine the influence of bacteria on the tongue dorsum in the development of dental caries. The human tongue is a very complex organ and microbiologically, is an important bacterial reservoir, thus serving as a key factor in the level of colonization of the tooth surfaces. Methods: The study involved 50 subjects assessed for their DMFT levels, through a clinical examination, separated into two groups of 25 elements each, being one group a high prevalence of dental caries and the other a low prevalence of dental caries. After the clinical examination, a sample of the tongue dorsum was taken, with a sterile swab, stored in BHI and inoculated on Columbia agar media, MSA, MSB and Rogosa Agar. Subsequently the plates were observed for bacterial growth and the bacteria were identified using the Gram stain, catalase test and biochemical identification using API ® test strip. Information on Hygienic and food habits was also obtained. Inferencial statistical analysis was performed on the obtained results. Results: A positive relationship between the values of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus spp. with subjects with a high DMFT (p<0,001) was observed. In individuals who drink alcohol, it was shown that there is a smaller number of bacteria at the tongue dorsum (p<0,05). It was observed that in people who brush their tongues, there are less Streptococcus mutans at their tongue dorsum (p<0,05). The use of dental floss shows a significant difference in mutans streptococci carriers from non carriers, in which there are more mutans streptococci carriers who do not use the dental floss (p<0,05). Conclusion: Data from this study strength the idea that the bacteria on the tongue dorsum have a direct influence on the development of dental caries.