ABSTRACT

Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax can cause gingivitis and scale. In this study, the prevalence of E. gingivalis and T. tenax were investigated among patients who were admitted to the Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Dentistry.

Two scraping samples were taken from 220 patients (ages varying from 12 to 75 years) and a questionnaire including fi fteen parameters was applied to all patients. The samples were diluted in Physiological Saline and examined immediately by Tech Lab Entamoeba Kit and Robinson Medium.

Oral protozoa were detected in 58 (26.4%) of 220 scraping samples. In 48 (21.8%) of the positive 58 specimens, E. gingivalis was detected alone whereas T. tenax was present in only two (1%) specimens. In 8 (3.6%) specimens, E. gingivalis and T. tenax were identifi ed together. Gender, age groups, dental caries and the number, shape disorders, systemic diseases, tooth pain, joint problems and wisdom teeth were not found to be signifi cant with the presence of oral protozoa. However, gum problems, presence of tartar, smoking habits, brushing habits and control habits were found to be statistically signifi cantly related with the presence of oral protozoa.

In the present study, E. gingivalis and T. tenax were found to be common. These parasites, with additional parameters, may lead to gingivitis and scale.

Keywords: Entamoeba gingivalis, Trichomonas tenax, gingivitis, scale