ASSESSMENT OF RELATIONSHIP OF PHYSIO- CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF SALIVA WITH DENTAL CARIES IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: A CLINICO-BIOCHEMICAL STUDY

Dr. Pranav Gupta, *Dr. Amit Kumar Khajuria and Dr. Sania

ABSTRACT

Aim: The protective function of saliva is achieved through its physico-chemical properties against dental caries. The purpose of this study was to assess relationship of physio- chemical properties of saliva with dental caries in pediatric patients. Material and methods: 100 children of age 6-12 years were enrolled in the study out of which 50 were caries active (group I) and 50 were caries free (Group II: control group). Saliva samples were collected from each child to measure flow rate, pH, Buffering capacity and salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Caries activity of each child was evaluated by DMFS and dfs index. Results: Flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity of saliva were found to be decreased in caries active children but the association was not statistically significant. The salivary Streptococcus mutant count was increased significantly in caries-active children. Conclusion: Salivary properties should be considered as an important risk factor for occurrence and progression of dental caries.

Keywords: Saliva, Dental caries, streptococcus mutans, flow rate, pH.