Abstract
Background: Dental caries is a microbial disease characterized by demineralization of the inorganic portion and destruction of the organic substance of the tooth. Dental caries, its resulting discomfort and pain can interfere with their nutritional intake including iron which results in iron deficiency anaemia.

Aims & Objective: To evaluate the association between iron deficiency anaemia with salivary pH and buffering capacity before and after iron supplementation in children of 6-12 years of age group.

Materials and Methods: Dental caries was recorded as per World Health Organization criteria. Blood was drawn from the patients for the estimation of Hb, MCV, MCH and serum ferritin levels to diagnose the iron deficiency anaemia. Unstimulated Saliva was assessed for, salivary pH and buffering capacity. Blood as well as salivary parameters were measured in two occasions, before beginning of the treatment for iron deficiency anaemia and after completion of treatment of iron deficiency anaemia. The obtained data was tabulated and statistical analysis was done.

Results: On statistical evaluation by students paired ‘t’ test, the parameter like Hb, MCV, MCH, Serum ferritin, salivary pH, and buffering capacity after the iron therapy showed statistical significance, (p<0.001). It was also found that the correlation and association of iron deficiency anaemia was evaluated with the Hb, MCV, and salivary pH.

Conclusion: Iron deficiency anaemia, the most commonly recognized form of nutritional deficiency, is prevalent among infants and young children as hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Due to change in the salivary pH and buffering capacity the risk of developing dental caries as well as deterioration of oral health is evident. Hence evaluation of these factors in saliva that may increase the risk of individuals to dental caries, can pave way to make recommendations that will cater specifically to needs of an individual. Iron therapy in iron deficiency anaemia can increase the levels of Hb, MCV, MCH, Serum ferritin, salivary pH and buffering capacity. Long term effect of iron deficiency anaemia on oral health is still needed to be explored.

Key words: Unstimulated whole saliva, salivary pH, buffering capacity, Caries, , Iron Deficiency, Serum ferritin