THE EFFECT OF PREVENTIVE MEASURES ON THE PROPERTIES OF ORAL FLUID IN CHILDREN AFTER RADICAL URANOPLASTY

Abstract

Introduction. Among the causes of many functional disorders in cleft palate abnormalities there are imperfections of the anatomical structures of the upper jaw, formed at the stage of facial embryogenesis. Inadequate capacity of protective mechanisms in the oral cavity is manifested by a decrease in the proper functioning of the major and minor salivary glands and changes in the level of biologically active components in the oral fluid that are responsible for maintaining homeostasis, which requires a certain correction.
 Purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and preventive measures after radical uranoplasty. Materials and Methods. 23 children aged 4 to 6 years with congenital cleft palate were involved in the study. Salivation rate, physicochemical and biochemical properties of the oral fluid were studied one month after surgery and after the completion of the monthly treatment course and receiving preventive measures.
 Results. The study has shown a decrease in salivation rate, pH level, and activity of α-amylase in oral fluid compared to the control group. Bilateral cleft defects showed more significant changes in the parameters. After one month of treatment and preventive measures, the salivation rate increased, and the physicochemical and biochemical properties of oral fluid improved. However, all values did not reach the control values, indicating the need for periodic repeated courses of treatment and prevention.
 Conclusion. Children with congenital cleft palate demonstrate decreased functioning of salivary glands that leads to a deterioration of the mechanical and chemical self-cleaning of the oral cavity. Changes in the physicochemical and biochemical properties of oral fluid disrupt its physiological balance thus, contributing to a deterioration of pH level and metabolic processes. Repeated treatment courses are necessary to maintain proper conditions for the mineralizing potential of oral fluid.