Detection of Streptococcus Mutans from Human Saliva Using 16SrRNA and spaP Genes in Regard with Dental Caries

Abstract

Background and Objective: Dental caries is the most common disease worldwide, and is a major healthcare problem. Streptococcus mutans is considered as the main factor causing dental caries. This study was conducted to assess Streptococcus mutans by its 16S rRNA gene and adhesin gene (spaP) as an early predictor of caries development. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 80 Iraqi pre-school children aged 3-5 years old. Subjects were divided into two groups: the case group, which included 40 children with severe caries, and the control group, which included 40 caries-free children. A dental examination was performed by diagnostic criteria of World Health Organization (WHO). Unstimulated salivary samples were taken from all children, and DNA of Streptococcus mutans was extracted from the all saliva samples. The 16S rRNA and spaP genes were detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and their presence was compared to dental caries severity. Findings: The age and gender of the children had no significant effect in this study. The prevalence of the Streptococcus mutans 16SrRNA gene was 98.8% positive and 1.2% negative in all study groups. Regarding spaP, a significant difference discovered between the case (92.5%) and control (50%) groups (p≥0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that the presence of spaP gene of Streptococcus Mutans can predict caries development. Therefore, more dental care is emphasized in these people.