Analysis of salivary pH, flow rate, buffering capacity, concentrations of calcium, urea and total proteins in 2-8 years-old children with Down’s syndrome

Abstract

Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder caused by trisomy of chromosome 21. It is the most common chromosomal abnormality found in humans. Despite the motor difficulties and biofilm accumulation, individuals with DS have low caries prevalence. In this context it is assumed that saliva plays an important role in maintaining oral health. Objective: To evaluate the following salivary components: pH, buffering capacity and salivary flow volume in children with DS aging 2-8 years-old in the city of Curitiba (PR). Material and methods: Saliva samples were collected from 20 children with DS. The following parameters were evaluated: buffering capacity, flow rate, pH, and concentrations of calcium, urea and total proteins. Results:There was a normal distribution among the variables and the values observed were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion:The results of this study revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in salivary flow, pH, buffering capacity, urea, calcium and total proteins in the subjects studied.

Periodontal disease in down syndrome: Predisposing factors and potential non‐surgical therapeutic approaches

“…61 Salivary proteins and lipids, which form buffers, antibacterial substances, and a protective film on the surface of the tooth, play critical roles in bacterial aggregation, hydrogen peroxide oxidation, antiviral and antifungal activities. 62 Although some studies reported no statistically significant differences in salivary components compared with data from individuals without DS, 51,62 certain early studies have reported alterations in saliva in DS patients. 57,59 In general, the anatomical changes in the oral cavity of children with the syndrome contribute to an increased risk of periodontal disease in these patients.…”

“…54 The reduction in salivary flow results in a thin mucosa in the oral cavity, which could potentially interfere with the antibacterial effect of mucus. 51 Due to the open mouth posture, protruded tongue, and hypotonic orofacial muscles, DS patients experience drooling, which contributes to a decrease in stimulated salivary flow from the parotid gland and results in dryness of the mucous membranes. 55,56 Several studies have indicated that salivary flow rates are lower in DS children compared to healthy individuals.…”

“…Several studies have demonstrated significant differences in salivary pH values between individuals with DS and those without, 57,58,61 while other studies have reported no statistically significant difference. 51 The ability of saliva to stabilize a normal pH, which contributes to oral health, is known as buffering capacity. DS cases generally exhibit higher buffering capacity of saliva compared to the general population.…”

“…Saliva contains numerous organic and inorganic components that maintain the delicate balance of the oral microbiota and prevent the adhesion and penetration of bacteria into the teeth. 51,52 Salivary components such as pH, buffering capacity, and salivary flow volume play an important role in reducing the harmful effects of metabolites produced by the oral microbiota. 51,53 Adequate Salivary flow can effectively dilute and eliminate the products of bacterial metabolism in the oral cavity.…”

“…51,52 Salivary components such as pH, buffering capacity, and salivary flow volume play an important role in reducing the harmful effects of metabolites produced by the oral microbiota. 51,53 Adequate Salivary flow can effectively dilute and eliminate the products of bacterial metabolism in the oral cavity. The low salivary flow in DS children may contribute to the accumulation of bacterial products, gingivitis and an increased risk of PD.…”