Degree Name
MSAH (Master of Science in Allied Health)
Program
Allied Health
Date of Award
8-2012
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Ester Verhovsek
Committee Members
Randy L. Byington, Deborah L. Dotson
Abstract
Documentation exists that mothers can pass the cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans to their infants. The newest technology to identify Streptococcus mutans is a rapid detection saliva test. Two hundred patients above the age of 18 were targeted using random selection in a Louisville, Kentucky dental office. Patients signed an informed consent form and were given a qualifying questionnaire. Patients received 2 bitewing x-rays and a charted DMFT index and were administered the saliva test. While the null hypothesis was rejected using the chi square test, the results were inconclusive due to expected values. However, other chi square results revealed that the test worked or had the potential to work. Furthermore, it was concluded that the test had high specificity. Further research is warranted; however, the saliva test in combination with the DMFT and x-rays are instrumental tools for the dental professional in educating patients and prevention.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Holtman, Catherine E., "Rapid Detection of Streptococcus mutans in Saliva" (2012). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 1460. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/1460
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.