Oral infections and susceptibility of its aetiologic bacteria
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.