Role of anaerobic bacteria in odontogenic infections

Abstract

It is well known that anaerobic bacteria, especially Bacteroides (Prevotella or Porphyromonas), Peptostreptococcus and Eubacterium are causative agents in odontogenic infections. It has been noted that hydrolytic enzyme-active P. intermedia and P. gingivalis may influence exacerbation of cases of cellulitis. We compared the isolation rate of hydrolytic enzyme-active and viscous material producing bacteria from constituents of saliva and dental plaque, chronic and acute periapical periodontitis, and subperiosteal abscesses. The severity of the disease was coincident with the isolation rate of hydrolytic enzyme-active and viscous material producing bacteria. Various enzyme producers were also found in saliva and dental plaque. These results suggest that oral flora have the potential to progress to acute odontogenic infections.