Caries prediction through combined use of incipient caries lesions, salivary buffering capacity, lactobacilli and yeasts in Finland

Abstract

The caries predictive value of incipient caries lesions (INC), salivary buffering capacity (DBPH), and salivary lactobacilli and yeasts (DCOC) was studied using logistic regression models. Additionally the effect of age was analysed. The subjects (n = 284) were from 7 to 12 yrs of age (categorized .ltoreq. 9 yr and .gtoreq. 10 yr). The measurements were carried out with Dentocult, Oricult and Dentobuff chair-side methods (Orion Diagnostica, Helsinki) in two groups of a field study. INC and DCOC contributed significantly to prediction in both groups. The estimated odds for being a caries active subject were about 20-fold in one group and 33.5-fold in .gtoreq. 10 yr in the other, when a child had positive values for INC and DCOC, in comparison with all negative values. Additionally DBPH had predictive value in both age categories in the latter group. Although the prediction was not perfect on an individual basis (correct in about 70% of subjects) the estimated odds-ratios clearly describe the differences in the susceptibility to caries. The results suggest that the present variables, especially in combination, have good ability to distinguish subjects in respect of high and low caries increment.