Influence of streptococcal infection on the appearance of caries in the background of chronic rheumatoid arthritis and the transmitted coronavirus infection COVID-19 (literature review)

Relevance. Caries of hard dental tissues is one of the most common diseases throughout the world. It affects not only the primary teeth of children, but also the permanent teeth of adults, which can lead to serious consequences for human health. In recent years, the dental community has paid special attention to the possible connection between streptococcal infection and the development of caries, and therefore this topic is extremely relevant and requires detailed consideration. Chronic rheumatoid arthritis (CRA) is one of the most common joint diseases, which is characterized by inflammation of the joint lining and destruction of cartilage. Patients with CPA are also at high risk of developing dental caries, which may be due to many factors, including changes in saliva composition and long-term use of medications.Purpose of the study: to study the effect of streptococcal infection on the occurrence of caries among patients suffering from chronic rheumatoid arthritis. To assess the incidence of caries complications caused by streptococcal infection among patients who have had COVID-19.Materials and methods of research. The authors analyzed domestic and foreign literature in order to conduct a literature review regarding the etiology of the occurrence and relationship of streptococcal infection and caries against the background of rheumatoid arthritis. The authors also analyze the incidence of caries complications caused by streptococcal infection as a consequence of COVID-19. Data from 160 patients, 100 men and 60 women, were studied.Conclusion. From the studies conducted, we can conclude that streptococcal infection is one of the factors influencing the development of caries. However, the exact mechanisms of interaction between bacteria and hard dental tissues have not yet been established. As a result of the analysis, it was revealed that the relationship between streptococcal infection and the occurrence of caries against the background of chronic rheumatoid arthritis is significant. The presence of streptococcal infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to deterioration of oral health, which in turn contributes to the development of dental caries. Among patients who have had COVID-19, there is a fairly high percentage of caries, including those caused by streptococcal infection and a general deterioration in the health of the oral cavity and the body as a whole.