Investigation of Fibrinolytic Bacteria Ratios in Alveolitis Using Polymerase Chain Reaction: Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This research investigated the presence and abundance of fibrinolytic bacteria in alveolitis (dry socket) cases following tooth extraction, aiming to elucidate microbial factors contributing to this common complication. Material and Methods: A cohort of 56 patients with alveolitis was included. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect ratios of specific fibrinolytic bacteria associated with alveolitis. Patient demographics, extraction details, and postoperative care practices were recorded to assess possible correlations. Results: The study comprised 56 patients and 59 extraction sockets diagnosed with alveolitis. Bacterial DNA was successfully isolated and detected from 50 samples. PCR showed a high prevalence of Treponema denticola (T. denticola) in 76% (38/50) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) in 32% (16/50). T. denticola was present in all samples in which P. gingivalis was detected. Most patients were female (62%), with a mean age of 40.16 years. Alveolitis most commonly followed lower third molar extractions (40.16% of cases). Postoperative care data indicated that 46% received antibiotics and 51% used chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash, with variable adherence. Statistical analysis found T. denticola prevalence significantly associated with female gender, while P. gingivalis was significantly correlated with lower antibiotic and CHX mouthwash usage. Conclusion: The high prevalence of T. denticola and P. gingivalis in alveolitis may be influenced by gender and postoperative care. These findings highlight the need for further research on their roles in disease pathogenesis and for developing targeted preventive strategies to improve postoperative outcomes.