The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), related to genes in salivary composition and flow, on dental caries experience. Sixteen studies were included in the systematic review and ten in the meta-analysis. Forty-four SNPS, covering four genes (CA6, AQP2, AQP5, and MUC5B) were identified. Most of the SNPs were not associated with caries in meta-analysis. Homozygous TT genotype of the SNP CA6 rs17032907(C/T) was associated with caries [OR = 3.23(1.39-7.49)]. The pool effect of the SNPs assessed in AQP5 was associated with a reduction in the likelihood of caries [OR = 0.75(0.59-0.95)]. Considering all SNPs of salivary composition and flow, the effect allele was associated with a 75% increase in the likelihood of caries [OR = 1.75(1.06-2.89)] in the homozygous genotype. The present findings showed that the genes in salivary composition and flow can play an important role in dental caries experience.
Keywords: Polymorphisms; dental caries; genetics; single nucleotide polymorphism.