Abstract
The aim of our study is to analyze the relationship between dental caries, Alkaline Phosphatase and Calcium in young adults between the age group of 20 to 30 years from South Canara district, Karnataka with varying caries experience as determined by their caries progression. Eighty subjects from the outpatient department ranging between 20 to 30 years of age were screened and evaluated for their caries experience. Based on their level of caries a total of 80 subjects were selected and divided into four groups of 20 subjects each as follows; Group 1: Enamel Caries , Group 2: Dentinal Caries, Group 3: Pulpal Caries, Group 4: Control Group. The saliva was collected and analyzed for the presence of Alkaline Phosphatase and Calcium levels in saliva and correlated to the same levels in serum. According to the present study there was an increase in the levels of caries with increase in the levels of Alkaline Phosphatase levels in both serum and saliva. Calcium levels in serum and saliva were decreased in caries prone individuals, hence showing a significant correlation between serum and salivary Alkaline Phosphatase and Calcium levels. Hence it can be used as a biochemical indicator in evaluating the susceptibility of caries. However further investigations need to be done.
