SALIVARY AND PLAQUE LACTOBACILLI IN THE PROGNOSIS OF HUMAN DENTAL CARIES

¹ College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio

Lactobacilli and certain other microorganisms were counted in saliva and plaque samples taken at monthly intervals from 107 dental students. Samplings were made during one year, at the beginning and end of which complete dental examinations were made. Comparisons were made between numbers of various organisms and previous caries attack, current dental condition, and future dental caries increment. Some associations were found, none of which, however, was clear and consistent enough to permit accurate prognosis of future dental caries in individuals. Certain relationships between salivary and dental plaque microflora are described.