Analyzing saliva proteins in young children to assess caries risk

Salivary Metaproteome as a Prediction Tool in Early Childhood Caries

Observational Karolinska Institutet · NCT06957509

This study looks at the saliva of 3-year-old children to see if certain proteins can help predict their risk of developing cavities.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages3 Years to 3 Years
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska Institutet Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT06957509 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the salivary protein composition in 3-year-old children from different communities in Stockholm, Sweden, to identify potential diagnostic predictors for early childhood caries (ECC). By examining saliva samples and conducting clinical oral examinations, researchers will explore the correlation between salivary protein profiles and caries prevalence among the participants. The study focuses on understanding how both human and microbial proteins in saliva may influence the risk of developing ECC.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are 3-year-old children living in specific areas of Stockholm.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than three years or have recently taken antibiotics or consumed food/drinks before the examination may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved methods for early diagnosis and risk assessment of early childhood caries.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using salivary proteins for caries risk assessment is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the role of oral microbiota in dental health.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 3-year-old children residing in the areas served by Folktandvården Danderyd and Järva, respectively
* Written consent, signed by both parents (guardians)

Exclusion Criteria:

* children older than three years
* medication intake, and antibiotic use at the time of examination
* children who have consumed food, drink, or used oral hygiene products within 2 hours before the dental visit
* children who appear uncooperative during saliva sampling

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Early Childhood Cariesearly childhood cariessalivametaproteinscaries risk assessment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.