Estimation of Salivary Nitric Oxide Levels Following Composite Restorations in Primary Molars: An In Vivo Study.

Abstract

Aims and background: Salivary nitric oxide (NO) has been identified as a promising biomarker for oral inflammation in the pediatric population. However, the effect of different dental materials on NO levels has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, our study aims to explore the changes in salivary NO levels following the placement of composite restorations.

Materials and methods: A total of 36 children (16 female and 20 male) participated in the study. One tooth of each individual was restored with Tetric^® N-Ceram Bulk Fill (Ivoclar Vivadent, AG). Saliva samples were collected before restoration (baseline), 1 week, and 1 month after restoration. NO concentrations were measured using the Griess reaction method. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA test followed by Bonferroni post hoc test.

Results: The baseline salivary NO level was 104.83 µM/dL, which increased to 180.65 µM/dL after 1 week and 306.82 µM/dL after 1 month. Statistical analysis showed a significant increase in NO levels over time, with all comparisons being statistically significant (p = 0.0001).

Conclusion: Composite restorations in primary molars lead to a significant increase in salivary NO levels.

Clinical significance: Residual monomers can increase the levels of salivary NO, which acts as an antioxidant in the oral cavity.

How to cite this article: Priya K, Nair MR, KN S, et al. Estimation of Salivary Nitric Oxide Levels Following Composite Restorations in Primary Molars: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(3):276-280.