Bücher von Manjunath P Puranik

Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a severe and early form of the carious disease that can compromise child¿s oral and systemic health. Despite significant efforts identification of children at risk for ECC before the onset of cavitation remains challenging. As teeth are bathed in saliva constantly, the constituents and properties of this oral ¿uid play an essential role in the occurrence and progression of oral diseases including dental caries. Thus, it can be a promising tool in early identification thereby preventing further progression of caries in children. This treatise throw light on the current knowledge and utilisation of salivary biomarkers in terms of its predictive potential for ECC. Some of the promising biomarkers identified include the microbiological species, electrolytes in saliva, antibodies, inflammatory mediators, glucosyltransferase and physical characteristics of saliva. Utilisation of these biomarkers in clinical practice might help the clinicians in improving the oral health status of the child.

Erosive tooth wear, has for many years been a condition of little interest to clinical dental practice or dental public health. As there is a change in lifestyle, the total amount and frequency of consumption of acidic foods and drinks have also changed leading to increase in dental erosion. There are different predisposing factors and aetiologies to this erosive condition. The interplay of chemical, biological and behavioural factors is crucial and helps explain why some individuals exhibit more erosion than others, even if they are exposed to the same acid challenge. Comprehensive medical and dental history and dietary habits and practices, salivary (microtouch, telemetric) and microbial analyses aid in determining the risk factors. The identification of the source of the risk factor directs the clinician towards eliminating the aetiological and predisposing agents. Hence comprehensive knowledge of the different risk factors is a prerequisite to initiate adequate preventive (non-interventive) and, if necessary, therapeutic (interventive) measures. This overview provides insight into risk assessment of dental erosion and suggest appropriate preventive measures in dental practice.