Research Summary

Tooth decay: Salivary proteins could help predict risk in children

Tests for proteins in saliva that control cavity-causing microbes could help predict a young child’s risk of dental caries. In a review article, Jing Zou and colleagues from Sichuan University in Chengdu, China, outline the roles of oral microorganisms and salivary proteins in the development and prevention of tooth decay in preschool-aged children. Streptococcus bacteria are the main cause of caries in young children, although other bacteria and fungi also contribute. Various proteins and other biomolecules found in saliva affect the survival of these microbes. The authors suggest that the concentrations of these proteins could serve as early indicators of tooth decay risk. However, studies have not found a correlation between total salivary proteins and decay risk, suggesting that more work is needed to identify the best biomarker in saliva.