This observational study aims to evaluate the relationship between salivary antimicrobial peptides and severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) in Turkish children. Severe early childhood caries is a multifactorial disease influenced by microbial, environmental, and host-related factors. Salivary antimicrobial peptides play an important role in the innate immune defense of the oral cavity and may influence susceptibility to dental caries.
In this cross-sectional study, salivary samples were collected from children diagnosed with S-ECC and from caries-free controls. Clinical dental examinations were performed to assess caries status. The levels of selected salivary antimicrobial peptides were measured and compared between groups to determine potential associations.
The findings of this study may contribute to a better understanding of the role of salivary immune components in the development of severe early childhood caries.