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LEVELS OF MUTANS STREPTOCOCCI AMONG SCHOOLCHILDREN IN IASI, ROMANIA.

AIM
To evaluate the dental and salivary density of mutans streptococci among Iasi schoolchildren.


MATERIAL AND METHODS
This study cross-sectional included 533 schoolchildren aged 7-12 years. The density of mutans streptococci on dental surface (mesial and occlusal surfaces of teeth 1.6 and 3.6) and in saliva was assessed using Dentocult SM Strip mutans kits (Orion Diagnostica Oy) according to manufacturer's instructions. Subjects were given one of the following scores: 0 = < 10(4) CFU/ml; 1 = < 10(5) CFU/ml; 2 = 10(5)-10(6) CFU/ml; 3 = > 10(6) CFU/ml.


RESULTS
A mutans streptococci density score 3 was predominant both in saliva and on the mesial and occlusal surfaces of the first permanent molars. Scores 2 and 3 were predominant in younger children, while in 12-year-old children the four scores were in similar percentages.


CONCLUSION
High levels of mutans streptococci prevail among Iasi schoolchildren, highlighting the need to implement complex caries prevention programs.