ABSTRACT
Objectives: In dentistry, the results of in vivo studies on drugs, dental fillings
or prostheses are routinely evaluated based on selected oral cavity environment parameters
at specific time points. Such evaluation may be confounded by ongoing changes in the
oral cavity environment induced by diet, drug use, stress and other factors. The study
aimed to confirm oral cavity environment changeability.
Methods: 24 healthy individuals aged 20–30 had their oral cavity environment prepared
by having professional hygiene procedures performed and caries lesions filled. Baseline
examination and the examination two years afterwards, evaluated clinical and laboratory
parameters of oral cavity environment. Caries incidence was determined based on DMFT
and DMFS values, oral cavity hygiene on Plaque Index (acc. Silness & Löe) and Hygiene
Index (acc. O`Leary), and the gingival status on Gingival Index (acc. Löe & Silness)
and Gingival Bleeding Index (acc. Ainamo & Bay). Saliva osmolarity, pH and concentrations
of Ca2+, Pi, Na+, Cl-, total protein, albumins, F- and Sr2+ were determined.
Results: The results confirmed ongoing changeability of the oral cavity environment.
After 2 years of the study reduction in oral cavity hygiene parameters PLI and HI
(P<0.1), and gingival indices as well as lower saliva concentration of Ca2+ (P<.001),
Pi (P<.06), K+ (P<.04), Sr2+ (P<.03), Na+ (P<.1), against the baseline values, were
observed. Total protein and albumin saliva concentrations were also significantly
lower.
Conclusion: Physiological oral cavity environment is subject to constant, individually
different, changes which should be considered when analysing studies that employ oral
cavity environment parameters. (Eur J Dent 2007;1:14-17)
Key words
Dental caries - Dental plaque - Saliva inorganic and organic components
