DNA probes and primers in dental practice.

In clinical microbiology, molecular genetic techniques are increasingly being used to detect and/or differentiate uncultivable, anaerobic, or fastidious microorganisms. During the past decade, DNA probe hybridization and in vitro amplification by polymerase chain reaction have also been introduced to detect oral pathogens. The present review describes experiences with methods and commercial test systems for the detection of pathogens in periodontitis and caries.