Quintessence international
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It has been suggested that the oral cavity and dental plaque might be a reservoir for Helicobacter pylori (Hp). In this study, our aims were to detect the prevalence of Hp colonization in dental plaque and tongue scrapings of patients with chronic gastritis and to investigate the effect of systemic treatment upon this colonization and eradication of Hp from gastric mucosa. ⋯ Helicobacter pylori colonization, which seemed to be high in dental plaque and on the tongue, might play an important role in the pathogenesis of the reinfection process. In order to eradicate Hp from both the oral cavity and the gastric mucosa, studies should be performed to assess the effects of plaque control procedures in addition to present treatment modalities.