Salivary analysis in adults with and without root caries in South coastal population of India - A cross-sectional analytical study.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the salivary flow rate, pH, buffering capacity, and glycoproteins levels in root caries-active and root caries (RC)-free subjects.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Outpatient Department of A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences with a sample size of 94 subjects. After screening of the subjects, the salivary samples were collected from 47 RC-active and 47 RC-free subjects for analysis. The following parameters were assessed - salivary flow rate, pH, buffer capacity, levels of salivary amylase, mucin, albumin, globulin, and total salivary protein.

Results: Age was significantly higher in the RC group compared to the non-RC group (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in pH between the groups (P = 0.050). Median buffer capacity and flow rate were higher in the non-RC group compared to the RC group. There was a significant difference in buffer capacity (P < 0.001) and flow rate (P = 0.001) between the RC and non-RC groups. There was no significant difference in total protein level (P = 0.285) in the non-RC and RC groups.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated reduced salivary flow and buffer capacity, along with lower albumin levels and higher mucin-1 concentrations in individuals with RC. The salivary analysis provides a noninvasive and effective approach to assess RC risk. Incorporating salivary diagnostics into routine dental check-ups, particularly for older patients, can help in tailoring preventive care and treatment plans.