Infection with Candida albicans during orthodontic treatment

Yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida are part of human physiological flora. They can be responsible for development of diseases, for example in immunocompromised patients. The blastospore form of Candida albicans belongs to physiological flora of the gastrointestinal tract, urogenital system, respiratory system, and skin. It is the most commonly isolated fungus from abnormal lesions of the oral mucosa. The transformation of the fungus into a pathological form of pseudohyphae initiates the development of stomatopathies.

Aim
The aim of the study is to review the literature on colonisation and fungal infections in patients receiving orthodontic treatment.

Material and methods
Research papers from 1980–2017 have been reviewed using PubMed, Index Copernicus and Research Gate databases with the following key words: C. albicans, orthodontic treatment, stomatopathies. The review included studies and review literature of Polish authors.

Results and conclusions
Candida albicans is the most common aetiological agent responsible for stomatopathies in patients receiving orthodontic treatment. C. tropicalis, C. lusitaniae, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei and other species are also detected in erythematous and inflammatory lesions of the mucous membrane. Based on a literature review performed it can be concluded that both removable and fixed braces are local factors affecting colonisation of the oral cavity by Candida albicans. Patients using orthodontic braces should be aware of the need to have more frequent follow-up examinations to assess the condition of the mucous membrane and early detection of possible abnormalities, because they are at increased risk, not only of dental diseases (caries), but also of diseases of the oral cavity mucosa and other organs (mycosis).