Genetic Analysis in Pain Associated Deep Caries

The influence of genetic variation on gene expression appears to play a major role in the susceptibility of individuals to deep caries. Genotypic profile of an individual can manage disease treatment decisions and minimize adverse reactions. The type of inflammation in the tooth affected by a carious attack is determined by the permeability of dentin and the closeness of the carious lesion to the pulp. Generally polymorphisms in cytokines contribute to an individual’s susceptibility in response to deep carious lesions. In this review, we discuss single nucleotide polymorphism and gene expression of pain receptor genes such as transient receptor protein channels, proteinase-activated receptor, voltage-gated sodium channels, and cyclooxygenase 2 that are involved in inflamed pulp and deep caries. We conclude that our review on genetic variations and expressions in pain associated deep caries could aid in better understanding of genes involved in dental pain management.