Oral infections and susceptibility of its aetiologic bacteria

John Akerele; Upe Babaiwa; Sylvester Okhuelegbe Eraga; Nneka Chukwuma; Emeka Danielson Odai; Ozoemene Ndubuisi Obuekwe

John Akerele Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Nigeria.
Upe Babaiwa Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin
Sylvester Okhuelegbe Eraga Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Nigeria
Nneka Chukwuma Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Benin, Nigeria
Emeka Danielson Odai Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Benin, Nigeria
Ozoemene Ndubuisi Obuekwe Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Benin, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluates the distribution of oral infections and the antibiogram of associated bacterial aetiologic agents. With a view to developing sustainable interventional strategies for improved oral health.

Methods: Surface and deep sockets specimen were collected from 155 patients with independent sterile swab sticks. Each specimen was subjected to standard methods for isolation, identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

Results: Patients between 20 - 29 years were more predisposed to oral infections with dental caries and it sequale; acute apical periodontitis being the most prevalent oral infection irrespective of sex. Teeth in upper and lower right quadrants of the mouth were most infected and extracted. Streptococci (33.33 %.), Corynebacterium (21.53 %), Staphylococcus (18.75 %) Neisseria (15.97 %) species and were the most prevalent bacteria isolated from both sexes. Less than 40 % of all isolate were susceptible to β lactams in contrast to over 80 % susceptibility to fluoroquinolones.

Conclusion: This study recommends the fluoroquinolones for the management of oral infections at the Dental Clinic in University of Benin Teaching Hospital as long as the benefits outweigh the risk.