Documentation exists that mothers can pass the cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans to their infants. The newest technology to identify Streptococcus mutans is a rapid detection saliva test. Two hundred patients above the age of 18 were targeted using random selection in a Louisville, Kentucky dental office. Patients signed an informed consent form and were given a qualifying questionnaire. Patients received 2 bitewing x-rays and a charted DMFT index and were administered the saliva test. While the null hypothesis was rejected using the chi square test, the results were inconclusive due to expected values. However, other chi square results revealed that the test worked or had the potential to work. Furthermore, it was concluded that the test had high specificity. Further research is warranted; however, the saliva test in combination with the DMFT and x-rays are instrumental tools for the dental professional in educating patients and prevention.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ETSU/oai:dc.etsu.edu:etd-2653 |
| Date | 15 August 2012 |
| Creators | Holtman, Catherine E. |
| Publisher | Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University |
| Source Sets | East Tennessee State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Source | Electronic Theses and Dissertations |
| Rights | Copyright by the authors. |
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