A review on saliva implication in caries development and consequences on primary canines and molars

Background: Caries are a multifactorial infectious disease in which many factors such as saliva, microbial fl ora, tooth morphology, general health condition, hormonal status, dietary habits, fl uoride supply, and hygiene control are implicated. Salivary fl ow, acidity, and saliva composition are particularly the contributors in tooth decay both development and prevention. Consequences of dental caries can be dramatic not only on the patient’s well-being in the esthetic and functional aspects but also on the arch dimensions, a potential need for orthodontic intervention. Aim: In this article, the etiology of caries is overviewed with a focus on the eff ects of saliva and its components in this process as well as salivary defence mechanisms for a bett er understanding of the role of saliva, and potentially the focus on preventive therapies in primary and mixed dentition children. Conclusion: Saliva was found a major factor in decays formation and subsequently tooth loss, through its chemical components and physical properties. Clinical Signifi cance: Hygiene control and early caries removal combined with knowledge on saliva characteristics in children would help preventing the leeway space loss, thus decreasing the need for orthodontic treatment related to arch length discrepancy.