Evaluation of Masticatory and Salivary Parameters in Young Adults

Chewing is one important function of the stomatognathic system, as it corresponds to the initial phase of the digestive process. Saliva has also an important role in oral and general health. The constituents of saliva have lubrificant and digestive properties, as they neutralize acids and bases and protect against demineralization of dental enamel. It is known that metabolic alterations may influence the synthesis, composition and salivary secretion. Objectives: Evaluate the association between masticatory function and salivary parameters considering the subject’s age and body mass index (BMI). Methods: 30 healthy volunteers were included; the masticatory function was analyzed objectively by determining the masticatory performance (MP), and subjectively by self-perceived chewing capacity (visual analogue scale). MP was determined by the individual’s capacity to comminute an artificial test-material (Optocal plus). The stimulated (SS) and non stimulated saliva (NS) was collected in the morning, by drainage method. The concentration of total protein, calcium, phosphorus, and triglycerides was determined by colorimetric method; pH and flow rate were also assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation tests and multiple linear regression with stepwise elimination (self-perceived chewing capacity as the dependent variable). Results: Positive correlation was observed between Total Protein concentration and NS flow rate (p=0,025); also, pH and flow rates correlated positively for SS and NS. It was not observed significant correlation between MP and salivary parameters. However, SS flow rate explained 31.3% of the variation in subjective chewing ability (p=0.01; power=74.1%). Conclusion: It was observed a relationship between salivary pH, flow rate and total protein concentration. Moreover, SS flow rate related to an improvement in the subjects’ perception of masticatory function.