A pattern of microbiological colonization of orthodontic miniscrew implants.

Introduction: Current orthodontic literature reveals a lack of studies on bacterial colonization of orthodontic miniscrew implants (MSI) and their role in the stability of MSI. This study aimed to determine the pattern of microbiological colonization of miniscrew implants in 2 major age groups, to compare it with the microbial flora of gingival sulci in the same group of patients and to compare microbial flora in successful and failed miniscrews.

Methods: The study involved 102 MSI placed in 32 orthodontic subjects in 2 age groups: (1) aged ≤14 years and (2) aged >14 years. Gingival and peri-mini implant crevicular fluid samples were collected using sterile paper points (International Organization for Standardization no. 35) >3 months and processed by conventional microbiologic culture and biochemical techniques. A microbiologist characterized and identified the bacteria, and the results were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: Initial colonization was reported within 24 hours, with Streptococci being the dominant colonizer. The relative proportion of anaerobic bacteria over aerobic bacteria increased over time in peri-mini implant crevicular fluid. Group 1 had greater Citrobacter (P = 0.036) and Parvimonas micra (P = 0.016) colonizing MSI than group 2. Failed MSI showed a significantly higher presence of Parvimonas micra (P = 0.008) in group 1 and Staphylococci (P = 0.008), Enterococci (P = 0.011), and Parvimonas micra (P <0.001) in group 2.

Conclusions: Microbial colonization around MSI is established within 24 hours. Compared to gingival crevicular fluid, peri-mini implant crevicular fluid is colonized by a higher proportion of Staphylococci, facultative enteric commensals and anaerobic cocci. The failed miniscrews showed a higher proportion of Staphylococci, Enterobacter, and Parvimonas micra, suggesting their possible role in the stability of MSI. The bacterial profile of MSI varies with age.