PLASMID PROFILE OF PLAQUE BACTERIAL ISOLATES

ABSTRACT

Background: The accumulation of dental plaque can create a biofilm where bacteria develop antibiotic resistance due to the protective matrix. Plasmids, small DNA molecules, play a role by transferring resistance genes among bacteria within the biofilm, facilitating the spread of antibiotic resistance. By investigating the role of plasmid genes in potential treatment failures, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of how plasmids mediate antibiotic resistance in plaque bacteria. This knowledge is vital for developing effective strategies to combat orodental infectious diseases using antimicrobial agents. Methods: The study evaluated a hundred and five patients from the paediatric and periodontal department in the dental clinic of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin city. Patient’s data collected were age, gender, alcohol history, smoking history, medical history, preferred chewing side, usage of mouthwash among others. Isolates obtained were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and plasmid curing with acridine as the curing agent using standard agar disc diffusion method. Results: A total of 53.33% of our study participants were female, and 46.66% were male. Participants aged 11-30 had the highest plaque occurrence (33.3%), linked to carbohydraterich foods (49.57%) and sugary drinks (38.46%). Streptococcus dominated in the plaque (47% aerobic, 42% anaerobic) compared to other organisms isolated. while. A significant increase in the zones of inhibition (P-value < 0.05) against antimicrobials used was observed for Streptococcus spp, Clostridium and Prevotella post-curing. Conclusion:.Patients aged 11-30 were more susceptible to dental plaque build-up The presence of plasmid-mediated multidrug resistance genes in plaque underscores the need for antibiograms and responsible antibiotic usage in orodental disease management. Keywords: Dental plaque, Demographics, bacteria, resistance, plasmids.