Dental caries in relation to salivary parameters and immunoglobulins among down's syndrome children in comparison to normal children

Abstract EN

Background : Low caries – experience in Down's syndrome individuals was observed.

These observations have been questioned by many researchers whether they are inherently resistant to caries or not.

Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure the changes in the level of pH, flow rate, buffer capacity as well as IgA and IgG in stimulated saliva and their relation to dental caries among Down's syndrome children in comparison to normal children.

Materials and Methods : Fifty institutionalized children with Down's syndrome and 50 normal children aged 7-10 years old were included in this study.

DMFS and dmfs indices were assessed according to Muhlemann's criteria and stimulated whole saliva samples were collected.

The average salivary flow rate was measured from the total volume, and salivary pH and buffer capacity was determined using pH meter.

Salivary IgA and IgG levels were determined by single radial immunodiffusion technique.

All data were analyzed using SPSS version 13.

Results : The DMFS and dmfs scores were significantly lower in Down's syndrome children than the control group (P < 0.01, P < 0.001 respectively).

A slightly higher value of pH was found among study compared to the control group (P > 0.05).

Salivary flow rate was significantly lower in Down's syndrome children (P < 0.001), while buffer capacity was significantly higher in those group (P < 0.01).

Salivary IgA and G were significantly higher in Down's syndrome children (P< 0.001).

Conclusion : This study suggests that Children with Down's syndrome present a better buffer capacity which may explains a lower caries – experience compared to normal children.