Critical Reviews in Oral Biology & Medicine, Vol 7, 259-277, Copyright © 1996 by International & American Associations for Dental Research
Potential of diagnostic microbiology for treatment and prognosis of dental caries and periodontal diseases
P. C. Baehni and B. Guggenheim
Department of Preventive Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland.
Most evidence suggests that only a finite number of bacteria are
responsible for dental caries and periodontal diseases. This knowledge led
to the development of microbial tests which can identify suspected
pathogens. Current evaluation of the diagnostic power of microbial tests
has shown that they have a low sensitivity and a low prognostic value.
Despite these shortcomings, there are valid indications for
microbiological-based diagnosis. Salivary microbial tests for the detection
of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli may be useful, for example, in
young children, oligosialic patients, and orthodontic patients. These tests
can be used to monitor the success of chemopreventive measures or
compliance with dietary recommendations. Microbial diagnosis, may also be
valuable in the treatment of early-onset periodontitis or in subjects who
respond poorly to periodontal therapy. The use of microbial tests to
monitor the efficacy of chemotherapy or mechanical treatment is of
particular interest.
