Investigating the Spread of Oral Parasites Between University Students and Schools in Samarra City

Abstract

An investigation of oral parasites Trichomonas tenax and Entamoeba gingivalis was conducted from November 2021 to May2022 in the parasite laboratory of the Faculty of Applied Sciences/Samarra University. Participants included Samarra University students as well as primary and middle school students for both sexes. 100 saliva samples, mouthwash water and gum swabs were examined for different age groups (10-40 years) using direct swabs and wet slide preparation. Study results indicate a total incidence of 57% for the E. gingivalis parasite and 1% for the T. tenax. E. gingivalis. Among females and males, the highest percentage was found in the males' age group (10-15) at 73.6%, whereas the females' age group (31-35) had the highest proportion at 100%for Trichomonas. A correlation was found between gingivitis and amoebia-oral alert at 22%, while those with healthy gums but suffering from dental decay were 78% with moral differences calculated at a probability level of (p<0.05). As of the current study, oral parasite prevalence did not appear to be correlated with smoking, diabetes, the standard of living, or educational level.