Bacterial composition of subgingival plaque in crowded and noncrowded teeth.

INTRODUCTION

Patients with dental crowding, even with good oral hygiene, may show increased bacterial presence in the crowded area. This study aimed to determine the microbial composition of subgingival plaque in crowded and noncrowded dental regions.

METHODS

Forty dental students with anterior dental crowding, who were aware of correct brushing techniques and oral hygiene, were enrolled in this study. After orthodontic records were taken and the periodontal examination was performed, subgingival plaque samples were collected from the crowded (experimental) and noncrowded regions (control) of each patient. Colony counting was performed for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), and streptococcus species.

RESULTS

The mean amount of Aa and Pg colonies was significantly higher in crowded areas (P <0.0001), but there was no significant difference between streptococcus species colonization and crowding. Aa and Pg colonization had a significant direct relation with the amount of crowding. (P <0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Crowded dental areas, even with good oral hygiene, are more suitable environments for Aa and Pg colonization.