Microorganisms colonizing tooth structures and antibacterial effect of temporary filling materials

The oral cavity contains a variety of microorganisms. Some of them are pathogens. Various groups of microorganisms play roles in causing different diseases affecting the hard dental tissues, the pulp, and the periodontium. The microflora found in dentin, the pulp chamber, and the root canals closely resembles that present in the oral cavity. While most of these microorganisms are part of the normal oral microbiota, they can acquire pathogenic characteristics under certain conditions. The aim of this research is to study different types of microorganisms that inhabit tooth structures and assess the antibacterial properties of temporary filling materials. A series of related articles, publications, and results of different studies have been analyzed and summarized in order to provide an overview of the main pathogens affecting the hard dental tissues, the pulp, and the periodontium, as well as the antibacterial properties of temporary filling materials. The literature review of the articles shows that many species affect the dental tissues, and different medications and strategies for their elimination are needed. Furthermore, the review highlights that temporary filling materials have antimicrobial properties against certain microorganisms and have to be combined with different intracanal dressings.