Streptococcus: An orthodontic point of view

Abstract

Introduction: Streptococcus mutans and S. sobrinus are the main causative agents of human dental caries. Objective: To analyze the literature on different genera of Streptococcus such as S. mutans, S. gordonii, S. sanguis, S. sobrinus and S. salivarius in relation to orthodontics. Methodology: Articles on the subject published through the PubMed, SCOPUS and Google Academic databases were analyzed, with an emphasis on the last 5 years. It was carried out with the words "Streptococcus mutans", "S. gordonii", "S. sanguis", "S. sobrinus ", "S. salivarius". Results: S. mutans: produces dental caries and demineralization of the enamel. It can be controlled with proper brushing techniques and oral hygiene. S. gordonii: predominates in the oral microflora and triggers cariogenic biofilms, is present in the formation of white spots around brackets and its development can be inhibited with fluoride-containing rinses. S. sanguis: present in orthodontic appliances, they have adverse effects that help the formation of dental plaque, mouthwash with nanio TiO2 and a good mechanical and chemical cleaning help to eliminate them. S. sobrinus: forms white spots, demineralizes enamel and causes dental caries. S. salivarius: its acid-base physiology plays an important role, the use of orthodontic appliances can produce an increase in bacteria which is associated with metal alloys. Conclusion: Streptococcus species are a problem in orthodontics, they can be eliminated by using Enlight composite resin, 0.02% chlorhexidine rinses, mouthwash with nanioTiO2 and a good mechanical and chemical brushing technique.