Method and kit for detection or quantification of streptococcus mutans and streptococcus sobrinus

摘要

A method for detecting and quantifying mutans streptococci in the saliva of an individual is provided comprising the steps ofP P(a) collecting a sample of saliva on the surface of a solid carrier strip;PP(b) introducing the sample on the solid carrier strip into a liquid medium which is selective for mutans streptococci and incubating in the liquid medium for a period of time sufficient to allow growth of visible colonies of mutans streptococci; andPP (c) detecting and counting colonies of mutans streptococci on the surface of the solid carrier strip. The invention further provides a kit for carrying out the method of the invention. The kit includes a solid carrier strip for obtaining a sample, an incubation vessel sized to accept the solid carrier strip, and a selective medium for growth of mutans streptococci. The selective medium can be provided in a ready-to- use liquid form, in a dry form which is reconstituted with water for use, or as a number of separately packaged dry or liquid ingredients which are combined in the incubation vessel for use.