Association of Anthropometric Measurements, Hemoglobin Level and Salivary Parameters among Caries-free and S-ECC Children

CONTEXT: The implication of severe dental caries in children may have its effect on general health apart from affecting the orodental tissues. Many children reporting with severe caries have shown weighing less due to malnourishment resulting in anemia and modified somatic growth. AIMS: Study aimed to assess and compare anthropometric measurements, hemoglobin level, and salivary parameters among caries-free and severe early childhood caries (E-CCC) children. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: For caries-free group [Group I] and S-ECC group [Group II] data were obtained from age-matched children with similar socioeconomic status. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Children with severe caries and without caries from the age-group 3- 6 years participated in the study. Children were measured for height, weight, measurement of mid-upper arm circumference, and waist circumference. Hemoglobin level was recorded. The collected unstimulated saliva was assessed for flow rate, salivary pH, and its buffering capacity. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were carried out using Windows software and SPSS (21). Tests of significance namely t-test and Chi-square test were used along with regression analysis. RESULTS: Caries experience showed no statistical difference for age and gender among the sample population. Significant difference was found for all anthropometric measurements. When comparison for hemoglobin was done for both groups I and II, significant difference was observed [p = 0.003]. CONCLUSION: Children with severe dental caries in the present study had low hemoglobin which, if persisted, can lead to anemia. Though the anthropometric parameters may appear normal in children diagnosed with severe early childhood caries, pediatric dentist should ensure the hemoglobin level test, as iron deficiency can affect growth and development of the child, if left undiagnosed. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Deshpande AN, Sudani U, Wadhwa M, et al. Association of Anthropometric Measurements, Hemoglobin Level and Salivary Parameters among Caries-free and S-ECC Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-2):S164-S171.