Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

12-1-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

First Advisor

Ahmed Touhami

Second Advisor

Yonghong Zhang

Third Advisor

Megan Keniry

Abstract

Dental caries, a prevalent oral health issue, is primarily associated with the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a Gram-positive bacterium that grows under various oral environments. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different beverages and mechanical cleaning on the growth of S. mutans, which plays a crucial role in tooth decay. Using a nano-spectrophotometer we analyzed bacterial growth by constructing growth curves under different conditions, including exposure to cranberry juice, Hawaiian juice, and mechanical brushing.

The study was designed to mimic real-world oral conditions by testing S. mutans in four distinct environments. First, we established a baseline by cultivating the bacteria in a standard growth medium. Then, we assessed the effects of mechanical cleaning by simulating brushing to observe its role in disrupting bacterial growth. Additionally, we evaluated the impact of cranberry juice, known for its potential antibacterial and anti-adhesive properties, and Hawaiian juice, which represents a sugary and acidic dietary component.

Our results revealed significant variations in S. mutans growth under different environmental conditions. While the bacterium exhibited exponential growth in a normal environment, mechanical agitation through simulated brushing notably reduced bacterial proliferation, likely due to the disruption of biofilm formation. Cranberry juice demonstrated a slight inhibitory effect, suggesting its potential role in oral health maintenance and prevention. In contrast, Hawaiian juice exposure resulted in a significant increase in bacterial growth, highlighting the detrimental effects of sugary and acidic beverages on tooth health.

These results emphasize the importance of mechanical cleaning in reducing bacterial accumulation and demonstrate the varying effects of different drinks on oral health. These findings underscore the importance of preventive strategies that moderate bacterial growth and biofilm formation for oral health maintenance as well as the possible use of natural compounds like cranberry juice in oral health. Ultimately, this research contributes to a better understanding of the complex relationship between oral pathogens and their environment. Understanding these interactions can aid in developing better preventive strategies to decrease the risk of dental caries and promote healthier dietary choices.

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Copyright 2025 Vanessa Escudero. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3292437023

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