Relationship between salivary flow rate and dental caries in normal and underweight children: a comparative cross-sectional study from district Tharparkar.

Abstract

Background and objectives: This study aims to explore the relationship between body mass index (BMI), salivary flow rate, and dental caries among children in Tharparkar.

Materials and methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months involving 179 children aged 8-12 years from Tharparkar and Hyderabad. Weight and height were recorded, BMI was computed using height and weight, and salivary flow rate was measured using the spitting method. Dental caries were assessed using the DMFT (decayed, missing, and filled teeth) index. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and independent t-tests were performed to assess group differences.

Results: Underweight children (60.9% male, mean BMI 15.46 ± 2.45 kg/m²) showed higher mean DMFT scores for deciduous teeth (2.44 vs. 1.06, p = 0.009) compared to normal-weight peers. No significant differences were found in permanent teeth DMFT scores or salivary flow rates between BMI groups.

Conclusions: Underweight children exhibited a higher prevalence of dental caries in their primary teeth, underscoring the need for integrated nutritional and oral health interventions in vulnerable populations. However, salivary flow rate did not differ significantly between BMI groups, suggesting other factors may play a more critical role in caries prevention.