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Degree Name
MSAH (Master of Science in Allied Health)
Program
Allied Health
Date of Award
5-2012
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Randy L. Byington
Committee Members
Deborah L. Dotson, Charles Faust
Abstract
The objective was to determine if a correlation exists between Streptococcus mutans and DMFT in the oral cavity. This study examined the feasibility of microbial screenings as an additional caries predictor tool. The sample included 108 participants (ages 18-25) in low, moderate, and high socioeconomic groups. Subjects were selected from one dental clinic and one college in Virginia. Subjects were assessed for DMFT, salivary and plaque bacterial load, and CRA. Salivary load positively correlated with the DMFT. Plaque bacterial load and CRA negatively correlated with DMFT. Comparison of salivary bacterial load among economic levels showed higher bacterial loads with lower economic level only. Twice the observed values were found in the low socioeconomic level with CRA. DMFT and economic level showed differences between economic levels. Microbial screenings may be a useful, additional tool in determining caries risk in oral hygiene programs for all income populations.
Document Type
Thesis - restricted
Recommended Citation
Ellington, Lori Fay, "The Relationship Between Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) and Microbial Screening in the Oral Cavity" (2012). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 1412. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/1412
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.