Abstract

Title : Comparative evaluation of levels of salivary nitric oxide in children without caries, with minimal caries and with Rampant caries- a clinical study
Aim : The purpose of this study is to evaluate if there is any difference in the levels of salivary nitric oxide in children without caries, with minimal caries and c with rampant caries. Methodology : A total of 90 children were divided into 3 groups of 30 each belonging to two age groups of 3-5 and 6-12 yrs. Group 1: children without caries Group 2: children with Minimal caries Group 3: Children with rampant caries Saliva samples were collected from all the children and Nitric oxide levels were measured by the concentration of its stable metabolite nitrite using Classical Griess Reaction. Results :The mean salivary nitric oxide levels in children with rampant caries are significantly higher than the levels in children with minimal and without caries. No significant change is found with salivary Nitric oxide levels in different age groups. Discussion : The significant difference in the mean salivary Nitric oxide levels in between children with Rampant caries and children without caries and with minimal caries is that the bacterial lipopolysachrides stimulate production of proinflammatory cytokines which induce production of high cytotoxic Nitric oxide concentrations by certain immune cells. Conclusion : The salivary nitric oxide levels are higher in children with Rampant caries compared to children without caries and with Minimal caries. As the age advances there is no increase in salivary Nitric oxide levels .