The effect of nutritional status on gingival health condition in relation to salivary zinc, magnesium, sodium and potassium among five years old kindergarten children

Abstract EN

Background : Malnutrition may increase the severity of oral health problems.

This study was conducted among malnourished kindergarten children aged 5 years in comparison to well-nourished group to determine gingival condition in relation to salivary zinc, magnesium, sodium and potassium.

Material and methods : The sample of present study involved of 84 malnourished and 89 well-nourished children aged 5 years.

The assessment of nutritional status was done by using three nutritional indicators, namely Height-for-age, Weight-for-age and Weight-for-height among 5 years old.

Diagnosis of dental plaque and gingival health condition were recorded through the application of plaque index and gingival index.

The stimulated saliva was collected to determine salivary zinc, magnesium, sodium and potassium.

Results : The mean plaque and gingival index values for children aged 5 years were significantly higher among malnourished as compared to well-nourished groups (P < 0.01).

The mean values of magnesium, zinc and potassium were lower among malnourished than well-nourished group.

There was no significant difference concerning sodium (P > 0.05).

As for those aged 5 years, a negative significant correlation was recorded between gingival index and salivary zinc in malnourished group Conclusion : Malnutrition affect on increase gingivitis and reducing salivary zinc, magnesium, sodiumand potassium.