Caries Risk Assessment in Children using Salivary Parameters

The aim of the study was to assess the caries risk in children aged 5-8 years using salivary parameters such as salivary flow rate, pH, buffering capacity and bacterial count (Streptococcus Mutans). 30 children, aged 5-8 years visiting the dental clinic at Ajman University of Science & Technology, Fujairah were randomly selected. Salivary parameters were assessed and caries index recorded for each. Children were found to have a very high caries rate; the mean deft was 10.67. No correlation was found between salivary flow rate and caries index. Negative correlation was found between pH and caries index but this was not statistically significant. Significant positive correlation was found between buffering capacity, levels of salivary S. Mutans and caries index. Association between caries prevalence and various salivary parameters is weak and inadequate to accurately identify caries risk at an individual level. However the predictive value improves and becomes more significant at population level. Various salivary tests must be used in combination or clusters for enhanced caries risk assessment.