A space in the anterior region of the dental arch of a youngster, either due to trauma or a congenitally missing tooth, can not only lead to psychological trauma but also create a functional dilemma for the dentist, as the usual treatment options of implant, removable partial denture and fixed partial denture available for adults, are often inapplicable or inconvenient for an adolescent. In such a situation, a resin-bonded fixed partial denture (RBFPD), such as Maryland Bridge fulfills all the requirements of an ideal interim solution till growth completion is achieved and a more permanent tooth replacement option can be explored.

Background and Objectives: Lactoperoxidase system contains Lactoperoxidase, Hydrogen peroxide and Thiocyanate ions, which have inhibitory action against cariogenic oral microflora. The present study was undertaken to assess the effect of lactoperoxidase system containing toothpaste on cariogenic microflora in children with early childhood caries. Methods: Study group included 30 children with Early Childhood Caries. 15 were considered as test group who used the test product Biotene® toothpaste and other 15 as control group who used Colgate Active® as control product. Salivary samples were analyzed for mutans streptococci (MS) and Lactobacilli, and for the levels of Thiocyanate ions. Results: showed significant increase in the levels of Thiocyanate ion in saliva during experimental period. Compared to the control group test group showed significant increase in the levels of thiocyanate ions during experimental and washout period, whereas the number of colonies of MS and Lactobacilli were significantly reduced in test group during experimental period. Conclusion: The levels of thiocyanate ions can be increased in vivo by supplementing the saliva with natural enzymes like lactoperoxidase. This increased concentration of thiocyanate will reduce the number of cariogenic microflora in children with Early Childhood Caries.

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