Scardovia Wiggsiae - A new etiological agent for early childhood caries

Abstract

A new micro-organism has been found responsible for causing Early Childhood Caries (ECC) -Scardovia Wiggsiae (S.W). It belongs to a genus of unidentified Bifidobacterium. The existence of S.W should thus be counted along with S.Mutans and L.Bacilli. The active lesions of the caries had more S.W count than the non-caries when assessed. Also, it was seen that among those seeking orthodontic care, the incidence of S.W was greater. As S.W is one of the causative species for caries, it may be used as a risk marker for caries. To avoid ECC, we need to find ways to reduce the S.W count. One of the studies showed that incidence of caries can be decreased by using pit and fissure sealant. However, more research is required in this matter.