The prevalence of oral bacteria (Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus) in patients suffering from thyroid disorders

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Basic Science, College of Dentistry, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq.

Abstract

Background: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, and their imbalance can lead to various oral pathologies. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum thyroid hormone levels (FT3, FT4, TSH) and the salivary viable count of oral pathogens (Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus) in patients with thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) compared to a control group. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, with 58 patients with thyroid disorders (29 having hypothyroidism and 29 hyperthyroidism) and 29 healthy subjects as the control group. Subjects were aged between 30-60 years, and saliva samples were collected for microbial counting and serum samples for colorimetric determination of FT3, FT4, and TSH concentrations. Results: The study found that patients with hyperthyroidism had significantly lower salivary flow rates (ml/min) compared to the control group (p<0.05), while patients with hypothyroidism had higher SFR levels (p<0.05). The salivary viable count of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus was significantly different in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism patients compared to the control group. Conclusion: The study concludes that while thyroid dysfunctions significantly alter hormone levels, they do not affect the salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, suggesting a complex relationship between thyroid health and the oral microbiome that warrants further investigation.

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Main Subjects

Microbes and Infectious Diseases

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 08 July 2024

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