出版社:Grupo de Pesquisa Metodologias em Ensino e Aprendizagem em Ciências
摘要:Introduction: Dental caries is the most prevalent chronic disease in childhood, being a significant public health problem. Saliva is considered one of the most important host factors and an essential biological modulator that controls the speed and progression of caries. Objective: To perform a literature review on early childhood caries (ECC) and its possible relationship with salivary proteins and peptides. Methods: An electronic search was performed in the Scopus, SciELO and PubMed Medline databases, applying the combination of the terms "early childhood caries", "saliva", "peptides" and "proteins". This research included studies that aim to relate salivary proteins and peptides and dental caries, individuals aged 0-71 months, studies published in the English language, randomized trials and clinical trials that demonstrate the relationship between early childhood caries and salivary proteins. Studies conducted with patients with congenital and / or chromosomal syndromes, systemic disorders or motor disabilities, as well as studies in animals, review studies, letters to the editor or case reports were not included in this review. Results: Of the 48 studies identified, 13 were selected for this review. Most studies have shown an association between salivary proteins and peptides and the presence or absence of caries. Six studies showed a high level of quality, while the rest of the studies were classified as of moderate quality. Conclusion: Although the association between salivary proteins and ECC is established, more evidence is needed for salivary biomarkers to be considered predictors of ECC risk.