RESUMEN
Asthma is known as a probable risk factor for dental caries; however there is some controversy in this issue. Present study is designated to evaluate the caries status in asthmatics compared to non asthmatic controls. In addition probable factors and co-varieties associated with dental health were also investigated. Forty five asthmatics and 46 healthy controls aged 6 to 12, entered this case-control study. There was a history of asthmatic drugs for at least one year including inhalators of beta-agonist, Corticosteroid or both. DMFS Index recorded according to visual- tactile method. Stimulated saliva was obtained and microbial count performed as CFU/ml for S. Mutans and Lacto Bacilli. Data analysis performed according to t-test, Mann-Whitney, Kendall's Rank Correlation and Ridge Regression. Mean DMFS Index was 3.98 +/- 2.53 in asthmatics and 4.3 +/- 2.81 in healthy controls. The difference was not significant caries. Final Ridge Regression showed significant correlation between drug regimen and caries [P=0.001, r=0.76]. Those received beta agonist along with protective corticosteroid had significantly less caries compare to beta agonist alone [P<0.001]. S. Mutans count revealed significantly higher in controls. Lactobacilli count was not significantly different. DMFS index was not significantly different. Inhaled corticosteroids in asthmatics leads to better control of disease process, and reduce dental caries maybe because of reduced beta 2-agonist consumption as a potent xerostomic