Biochemical modifications of human whole saliva induced by pregnancy

Objective To assess human unstimulated whole saliva components during pregnancy, to determine the relation, if any, between pregnancy and oral health, particularly total protein concentration, α-amylase activity, sialic acid content and calcium and phosphate concentrations were evaluated. Design Cross-sectional study. Participants Forty-five healthy primigravid women; 15 nonpregnant women acted as controls. Results 1. A higher total protein content at 10 and 21 weeks of gestation with respect to the controls and to pregnant women at 40 weeks; 2. a higher α-amylase activity at 10 and 21 weeks of gestation compared with the controls and to pregnant women at 40 weeks; 3. an increased sialic acid content at 21 and 40 weeks; 4. decreased calcium and phosphorus concentrations at 21 and 40 weeks of gestation. Conclusions Pregnancy modifies saliva composition. This could play a pivotal role in the incidence of pregnancy-induced dental caries.