Determining caries risk susceptibility in children of Udaipur city with genetic taste sensitivity and hormonal fingerprint

ABSTRACT

Background: Propylthiouracil (PROP) (a medicated tool) and hormonal fingerprint (second to fourth digits [2D4D]) ratio can be used for detection of caries which is most prevalent oral health disease. Aim: This study aims to determine the role of genetic taste sensitivity and hormonal fingerprint (2D4D ratio) on caries risk susceptibility. Materials and Methods: The present study was an observational and cross-sectional study. It was conducted on 570 children aged 6–12 years. PROP sensitivity test was done by PROP impregnated filter paper strips and subjects were divided accordingly into supertasters, medium-tasters, and nontasters. 2D4D ratio was obtained by measuring length ratio of index to ring finger using Vernier caliper. Dietary preferences of the subjects were recorded. The evaluation of decayed, missing, and filled teeth/deft indices was done. Statistical Analysis: Intergroup comparisons were performed using One-way ANOVA test, independent t-test and Chi-square test at 5% significance level. Results: Positive correlation between nontasters, low digit ratio, sweet likers, and high caries index was found with a high significant difference. Conclusion: Genetic taste sensitivity and hormonal fingerprint (biological marker) can be used for detection of caries as the present research confirmed impact of hormones on taste perception.