Distribution of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in deep caries lesions

Summary Introduction Deep caries is a reversible process where caries lesion has affected bigger part of dentin and only thin layer of softened dentin that separates lesion from the pulp is remained. The objective of this study was to identify and determine serotypes of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in teeth with deep caries lesions at the beginning of their treatment. Material and methods Clinical research included 29 patients of both genders, aged 16 to 40 and 45 permanent teeth with diagnosed deep caries lesions based on medical history, clinical and radiographic examination. After cavity preparation and removal of softened dentin, microbiological swab was taken from the bottom of the cavity. Swabs were disposed in special sterile micro tubes and stored at the temperature of −80°C until serotyping was done (determination of serotypes of A. actinomycetemcomitans bacterium). Results In one of the 3 samples two serotypes of A. actinomycetemcomitans (b and c) were identified which is relatively rare finding, while in the second and third sample serotypes (a) and serotype (b) was identified, respectively. Conclusion In the three samples the 3 serotypes were found (a, b and c) and one of the samples was carrying even two different serotypes, which is a rare phenomenon. For more serious epidemiological study of A. Actinomycetemcomitans serotypes at the population level incomparably larger starting material is necessary, at least few hundred of samples.