The Diagnostic Aids of Salivary Trace Metals in Dental Caries among Systemically Healthy Individuals
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32828/mdj.v22i1.1236Keywords:
Dental caries, saliv, biomarkers, iron, copperAbstract
Abstract
Objectives of study: This research aimed to assess levels of salivary trace elements, iron and copper as potential biomarkers for dental caries in Iraqi patients. Methods: Stimulated salivary samples were collected from (60) participants aged (20-27) years to determine iron and copper concentrations. Results: There had been a significant elevation of salivary iron and copper among caries group (p>0.001). There was a positive relationship among iron and DMFT scores (r=0.3, p=0.03). ROC analysis revealed that iron had a strong diagnostic performance (AUC=0.9), while copper showed a moderate accuracy (AUC=0.7). Conclusion: Salivary iron demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for detecting dental caries and may save as a reliable biomarker. Copper may also be supportive but less specific. This findings suggest the diagnostic accuracy of salivary trace elements, though further standardized collection methods of saliva are recommended.
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