Culture-based analysis of oral dysbiosis in post-oncological patients rehabilitated with obturator prostheses.

Background: Post-oncological maxillary defects are commonly rehabilitated with obturator prostheses. This study compared the oral microbiota of post-oncological patients using obturators with that of control subjects wearing conventional removable dentures, focusing on clinically relevant, cultivable microorganisms. Methods: Post-oncological obturator users and denture-wearing controls were examined. Swabs from the oral mucosa, prosthesis surfaces, and resection sites were analyzed using culture-based microbiological methods, including species identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Microbial, demographic, and clinical data were statistically analyzed. Results: Obturator users harbored a more pathogenic and antimicrobial-resistant oral microbiota than controls, with increased colonization by opportunistic pathogens such as Conclusions: Culture-based analysis demonstrated increased colonization with antimicrobial-resistant opportunistic pathogens in post-oncological patients using obturator prostheses, highlighting the need for intensified hygiene and preventive care.