Abstract Introduction: The oral cavity is home to several species of Candida , the most prevalent of which is Candida albicans . However, their role as potential co-pathogens in multifactorial diseases such as dental caries and gingivitis remains an area of active investigation. The synergistic interactions between Candida and cariogenic bacteria, as well as their pro-inflammatory potential, suggest a more significant contribution to oral diseases than previously understood. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved healthy adults aged 20–50 years. Researchers clinically evaluated dental caries (Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth DMFT Index) and gingival health (Gingival Index GI). They also collected unstimulated saliva to quantify Candida colonies (CFU/mL) on Sabouraud dextrose agar, dividing participants into Candida -positive and Candida -negative groups. The study used t -tests and Pearson correlation to statistically analyse the relationship between the presence of Candida and oral health status, with a significance level of P < 0.05. Results: Nearly half (48.5%) of subjects carried oral Candida . This Candida -positive group had significantly worse dental caries (DMFT) and gingivitis (GI) scores compared to the negative group ( P < 0.001). Furthermore, Candida colony counts showed a moderate positive correlation with the severity of both conditions. Conclusion: Carrying Candida in the mouth is common in adults and is linked to more severe gingival irritation and a heavier load of dental caries. According to these results, Candida might be a major contributor to the development of these prevalent oral disorders and a major risk signal for them.
Saluja et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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