Study of the correlation between the gingival immunologic defense index and parameters associated with dental caries.

The objective of the present study was to determine the possible existence of a correlation between the gingival immunologic defense index (GIDI) and parameters associated with dental caries such as number of teeth with cavities, number of colony forming units (CFU) of streptococci of the mutans group, decay missing filling deciduous teeth (dmft), and decay missing filling permanent teeth (DMFT). Since no correlation was detected with the above parameters, we conclude that the simple presence of caries or of CFU is not sufficient to stimulate IgA production and/or secretion. For this to occur, an unfavorable action of these parameters on gingival health is needed, with the production of gingival inflammation.