Evaluation of salivary nitric oxide levels in caries-free children and children with early childhood caries: An in vivo study

Background and Objectives: Early childhood caries (ECC) is one of the most prevalent diseases of childhood. Pediatric dentists must make conscious efforts to prevent this condition for optimal oral health. Normal salivary function is considered critical for the maintenance of a healthy oral cavity. Saliva provides an easily available, noninvasive medium for the diagnosis of wide range of diseases and clinical conditions. The objective of the present study was to estimate and compare salivary nitric oxide (NO) levels in caries-free children and children with ECC. Methodology: The children were divided into two groups. Group I comprised thirty caries-free children and Group II comprised thirty children with ECC. Saliva was collected by suction method. Griess reaction was used to estimate the NO levels. Unpaired t-test was used for comparing and evaluating the NO levels in both the groups. Results: Mean salivary Nitric Oxide level is significantly higher in caries free children as compared to that of children with early childhood caries (ECC). Interpretation and Conclusion: The present study clearly indicates a significant increase in salivary NO levels in caries-free children as compared to children with caries. This may be attributed to the antimicrobial action of NO