The effect of antibiotic therapy on the oral health of cystic fibrosis children.

This study examined the relationship between antibiotic usage and plaque, gingivitis and dental caries experience in a group of children suffering from cystic fibrosis. Their scores for plaque, gingivitis and dental caries were compared with those of healthy control children who were individually matched on the basis of age, sex and social class. Significant negative relationships were noted between (i) antibiotic usage during the 4 weeks prior to examination and plaque and gingivitis scores, and (ii) antibiotic usage since the age of 6 years and DMFT. It is suggested that antibiotic therapy may be a major cause of the lower levels of dental disease observed in cystic fibrosis children.