The occurrence of Helicobacter pylori antigens in dental plaque; an association with oral health status and oral hygiene practices

ABSTRACT Purpose Helicobacter pylori present in the oral cavity can be a source of gastric infection. Since in the oral cavity H. pylori is mostly found in dental plaque, the aim of the study was to determine whether the oral health status and oral hygiene practices affect the incidence of H. pylori antigens in dental plaque. Materials and Methods The study was performed in 155 patients aged 19–78 years. Patients who had taken antibiotics within 4 weeks preceding the study and those with a past history of H. pylori eradication were excluded. Each patient filled out a questionnaire on the procedures of dental plaque removal from natural teeth and dentures, and underwent oral examination. H. pylori antigens in supragingival plaque were determined by the immunological method with the use of a kit for detection of H. pylori antigens in stool samples. Results The presence of H. pylori antigens in dental plaque was found in 65.6% of the study subjects. The oral health status, frequency of dentist visits as well as the number and technique of dental plaque removal from natural teeth and dentures did not differ significantly between patients with infected and non-infected dental plaque. Conclusions The occurrence of H. pylori antigens in dental plaque of natural teeth is not associated with oral health status or dental plaque removal practices from both natural teeth and removable dentures.