An attempt to correlate biochemical parameters in saliva with dental carries in children of two different age groups: A comparative study

Abstract

Aim: Dental caries is one of the most common chronic dental diseases of childhood. Saliva by virtue of its chemical composition provides the main host defence in the oral cavity and plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of oral structure. The present study was an attempt to correlate the changes in biochemical parameters with dental caries in the saliva samples of children of two different age groups. Materials and Methods: The level of calcium, phosphorous, α-amylase, and pH was measured in the saliva of caries-free (control group with decayed, missing, and filled teeth [DMFT] = 0) and caries-affected (test group with DMFT ≥5) children of 3–8 years and 9–14 years of age. Results: Statistical analysis of the data thus obtained revealed no significant difference in the mean values of calcium, phosphorus, α-amylase, and pH in caries-affected children when compared to their age-matched control group except phosphorous which increased significantly in caries-affected children of 3–8 years of age. There was also a significant correlation between calcium and phosphorous levels (r = 0.192*, P = 0.04) irrespective of age group. Conclusions: This study indicated a direct relationship between phosphorous level and dental caries in children of younger age group (3–8 years of age) and was attributed to their greater susceptibility to dental caries leading to their more DMFT status than children of 9–14 years of age. Greater susceptibility of primary enamel to demineralization is well documented in the literature, and it is because of its less mineralized, significantly softer and less elastic nature and higher organic content that dissolves faster in the acidic environment than the permanent enamel. Increased phosphorus in the saliva sample of caries-affected children might be due to the hydrolysis of organic phosphates of their enamel. Significant correlation between calcium and phosphorous supports the involvement of these two minerals in the formation of hydroxyapatite of tooth.