The role and significance of the fungus Candida albicans in the formation and progression of early childhood caries

Introduction: Early childhood caries is defined by the 2021 American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry as any decayed tooth, missing tooth (due to decay), or filled surface on any baby tooth in children under six years of age. It is a multifactorial disease, which involves synchronized activity of cariogenic microorganisms, sensitivity of the host and fermentable carbohydrates. Streptococcus mutans is the main cariogenic microorganism. Recent findings show that Candida albicans, an opportunistic fungus, is often detected in higher numbers in children with early childhood caries. Research indicates that there is a synergistic effect of C. albicans and S. mutans, which increases the pathogenicity and thus the severity of the clinical picture. The aim of the study is to show the influence of the fungus C. albicans on the onset, course and prognosis of early childhood caries. Material and methods: By searching PubMed databases, using the keywords Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans and early childhood caries, 17 studies included in this paper were analyzed. Results: Studies show that the interaction between C. albicans and S. mutans affects the etiology, course and prognosis of early childhood caries. Conclusion: longitudinal studies are necessary in order to examine the influence of the synergistic effect of these two microorganisms on the occurrence of caries in early childhood.