Estimation of Levels of Streptococcus Mutans in Children with Black Stain.

Background: Black stain is a discolouration which mainly occurs along the cervical third of buccal or lingual surfaces of the teeth. It most commonly affects the primary dentition, but permanent dentition may also be affected. Studies state that children with black stain are generally caries free. Aim: To estimate levels of Streptococcus mutans in children with black stain. Objective: To evaluate levels of Streptococcus mutans in children with black stain, in children with dental caries and non carious children. Materials and Method: The study was conducted in school going children of the age group between 3-12 years of age, 5ml unstimulated saliva samples were collected from 15 children comprising of three groups (5 children each) with black stains, with and without dental caries and evaluated for Streptococcus mutans colony forming units. Results: This study showed that children with black stains had lower levels Streptococcus mutans (189.6+/- 64.16) colony count which was significantly lower when compared to children without any stains or caries (388+/-106.47) and children with dental caries (680.80+/-280.07) which was found to be statistically significant (P value of 0.003*). Conclusion: Children with black stain have low levels of Streptococcus mutans when compared to children with and without Dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]