Oral Candida Colonization and Its Role in Dental Caries Among Adults

Authors

  • Ruaa Kamil Ali
  • Maha Adel Mahmood Collage of Dentistry, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/d3000.2026.1482

Keywords:

Candida albicans, Dental Caries, Oral Candidiasis, Saliva, Oral Microbes

Abstract

The present review examined the current literature on the topic of adult oral Candida colonization and then briefly discusses how Candida can cause dental caries from a perspective of biofilm action, microbial interaction, and host-related conditions. Several aspects are covered in the analysis including the biofilm aspect, microbial interaction, and the role of host-related conditions. According to recent studies, Candida albicans is usually regarded as an oral commensal, but its possible to see a certain shift towards pathogenesis once conditions have changed. Additionally, there is experimental evidence as well as clinical evidence that Candida and cariogenic bacteria might form a collaboration, enhance mixed biofilms, tolerate low pH, and survive in mouths where there is reduced saliva protection. For adults, there is some evidence suggesting that presence of Candida is related to caries experience in certain populations, although not every case proves this relationship. Differences can result from sampling procedures, methods used in the laboratory, different ages, and saliva status. The oral candida colonization may be viewed as some form of ecological factor in adult cariology. It is improbable that the oral candida colonization is the sole agent responsible for caries. However, it may contribute to pushing dysbiosis to the point where the disease progresses further.

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Published

2026-08-14

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)

Section

Adults & the Elderly

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Ruaa Kamil Ali, Maha Adel Mahmood

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Revised 7/16/2018. Revision Description: Removed outdated link.