Enterococci in the oral cavity of periodontitis patients from different urban socioeconomic groups

Abstract

Background: Enterococci are the transient constituents of the oral microbiome and have been
now increasingly related to oral and systemic diseases. They have now become the most notable
nosocomial pathogens and also been linked to etiology of periodontitis. This study evaluates the
prevalence of Enterococci in the chronic periodontitis and healthy Indian cohort in different urban
socioeconomic groups.
Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, individuals in the age range of 18–75 years
were included. Seventy individuals had mild‑to‑moderate periodontitis and 30 healthy persons were
taken as controls. A questionnaire was administered. Paper point samples of gingival crevicular fluid
were obtained, pooled, and sent to microbiology laboratory in a transport media. Forty‑six isolates
were identified as enterococci.for statical analyzes Pearson’s Chi‑square test used and. P < 0.001 was considered to be  significant.
Results: The prevalence of enterococci was seen mostly in the individuals from lower socioeconomic
class, having poor oral hygiene, and smokers. This was significantly different from those of upper
class (P < 0.001). The predominant species isolated was Enterococcus faecalis.
Conclusion: Enterococci particularly E. faecalis followed by Enterococcus faecium could play a crucial
role in the severity or progression of periodontitis particularly in a favorable oral environment.