Stimulated Salivary Flow Rate, Salivary pH, Viscosity, and Salivary Buffer Capacity and Their Relationship With Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in Mexican Schoolchildren.

AIM: The aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH), as well as the relationship between stimulated salivary flow rate, salivary pH, viscosity, and salivary buffer capacity with the presence of MIH in 6- to 12-year-old Mexican children.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Cross-sectional study conducted on 296 6- to 12-year-old schoolchildren selected from a public primary school. Saliva samples were collected and analyzed for resting salivary flow rate, salivary pH, stimulated salivary flow rate, viscosity, and salivary buffer capacity, using the Saliva-Check BUFFER kit. MIH was evaluated using the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry criteria (EAPD).

RESULTS

The prevalence of MIH was found to be 27.7%, whereas 42.9% of participants presented poor oral hygiene. Only four salivary parameters were observed to be associated with the presence of MIH. The probability of the occurrence of MIH was significantly higher in children presenting a high level of salivary viscosity (OR = 2.39; p = 0.007), a moderately acidic salivary pH (OR = 2.98; p = 0.001), a low/very low stimulated salivary flow rate (OR = 2.49; p = 0.006), and a low/very low salivary buffer capacity (OR = 4.24; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A relationship was found between stimulated salivary flow rate, salivary pH, viscosity, and salivary buffer capacity and the presence of MIH in Mexican children. Specific strategies and interventions using remineralizing agents are required to improve both salivary health and the remineralization of teeth damaged by MIH in the child population.