Dental caries, cariogenic microorganisms and salivary properties of allergic rhinitis children

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to observe the caries activities of allergic rhinitis patients in relation to salivary properties, salivary levels of mutans streptococci (MS) and lactobacillus (LB), oral hygiene and dietary habits.MethodsThe study groups composed of 40 allergic rhinitis children and 40 healthy controls aged between 6 and 13 years old. Demographic data, oral hygiene practices and dietary habits were recorded by questionnaire. For permanent teeth, caries experience was expressed as DMFT (D = decayed; M = missing; F = filled; T = teeth) index. The dmft (d = decayed; m = missing; f = filling; t = teeth) index was used for caries prevalence in primary teeth. Unstimulated salivary flow rate, salivary buffering capacity, and salivary MS and LB were also determined in children with allergic rhinitis and controls.ResultsThere were no significant differences in combined DMFT/dmft, salivary flow rate, buffer capacity of saliva, salivary LB levels, and sugary food consumption between cases and controls (p > 0.05). However, higher salivary MS levels were observed in allergic rhinitis patients, compared to controls (P < 0.05).ConclusionsOur results demonstrated that patients with allergic rhinitis had an increase in the level of salivary MS.