<![CDATA[Background: Saliva is an exocrine clear oral fluid predominantly secreted by salivary glands both major andminor. It consists of many constituents, mainly water and others are electrolytes, enzymes, immunoglobulinsand other antimicrobial factors.Saliva plays an important role in the oral health, the level of its components change with age, and that hasdirect effect on teeth and periodontal tissue, because saliva plays a critical role in the development of dentalcaries and periodontal diseases.The objective of this study to estimate salivary changes by investigation the level of alpha- amylase andMMP-8 enzymes, sIgA, and salivary minerals (Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorus) in relation to age.Materials and Methods: Ninety persons were chosen from different age groups (60) males and (30)females, the age ranged between 20 up to 50, and divided into three subgroups.ELISA technique was used to evaluate the level of salivary alpha-amylase, MMP-8, and sIgA. Salivaryelectrolytes were evaluated according to their kits.Results: Results showed that the level of sIgA significantly decreased with the age, salivary alpha –amylasedecreased with the age but not significant statistically, and MMP-8 increased with age but not significantstatistically. Regarding salivary minerals (Ca, P, and Mg) results showed that calcium and magnesiumlevels significantly increased with age, while phosphorus level increased with age also but not significantstatistically.Conclusion: Decrease in the level of sIgA and alpha-amylase with age, while increase in the level of MMP8 and salivary minerals (Ca, P and Mg) with age, may indicate decrease in the incidence of dental caries andincrease in the incidence of periodontal disease with age.]]>
