Biochemical modifications of human whole saliva induced by pregnancy

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess human unstimulated whole saliva components during pregnancy, to determine the relation, if any, between pregnancy and oral health, particularly total protein concentration, alpha-amylase activity, sialic acid content and calcium and phosphate concentrations were evaluated. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS: Forty-five healthy primigravid women; 15 nonpregnant women acted as controls. RESULTS: 1. A higher total protein content at 10 and 21 weeks of gestation with respect to the controls and to pregnant women at 40 weeks; 2. a higher alpha-amylase activity at 10 and 21 weeks of gestation compared with the controls and to pregnant women at 40 weeks; 3. an increased sialic acid content at 21 and 40 weeks; 4. decreased calcium and phosphorus concentrations at 21 and 40 weeks of gestation. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy modifies saliva composition. This could play a pivotal role in the incidence of pregnancy-induced dental caries.