Caries prediction factors in children with primary dentition

Previous studies have indicated an association between the dmft and the lactobacilli counts in small children. This study evaluated and compared a number of salivary factors that could have an effect on caries progression in two groups of children with primary dentition (group 1 = 3-6 years; group II = 9 years). The average dmft score was higher for group II. The dmft score of group I consisted mainly of a large dt component, while in group II a large ft component was found. Lactobacilli were present in 44.83% of group I and in 77.27% of group II. Significant positive correlations were found for group I between the dt component of the dmft and lactobacilli count (P < 0.05, r = 0.48) as well as the total dmft and lactobacilli count (P < 0.05, r = 0.45). Significant positive correlations were found for group II between the dmft and lactobacilli count (P < 0.05, r = 0.39) and the plaque index and lactobacilli count (P < 0.05, r = 0.31). Significant correlations between the dmft and the prevalence of lactobacilli in the oral cavity were also indicated (group I: P < 0.05, r = 0.45; group II: P < 0.05, r = 0.36). Significant correlations confirmed the association of lactobacilli with the caries process and indicated the reliability of lactobacilli counts to determine caries activity. Correlations between the dmft and the prevalence of lactobacilli in the oral cavity indicated the possibility of an excellent but simple test for the prediction of caries susceptibility in children.