Differential adhesion of Streptococcus mutans to metallic brackets induced by saliva from caries-free and caries-active individuals

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of saliva obtained from caries-free and caries-active individuals on the adhesion rates of Streptococcus mutans to metallic brackets. Methods: The unstimulated whole saliva of four caries-free (decayed, missing, or filled surfaces = 0) volunteers and four caries-active (decayed, missing, or filled surfaces >12) patients were collected. The saliva samples from each group were mixed and clarified. Acquired pellicles were formed onto 30 metallic edgewise brackets for premolars for each saliva group. The brackets were put in contact with planktonic cells of Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175. Adhesion rates were assessed by crystal violet retention technique. Results: A higher streptococcal adhesion pattern (P < 0.00001) was observed on acquired pellicles formed by saliva from caries-active donors. Conclusions: The results showed that saliva from caries-active patients tends to increase the mutans adhesion to surfaces, which is a point of concern for orthodontists.