The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of passive smoking on oxidative stress and dental caries in children.A total of 180 children were included to the study as follows; 90 children exposed to passive smoking, and 90 children in the control group (unexposed controls). Also demographic data were recorded (age, gender, parental education levels, child's tooth-brushing habit and child's daily dietary sugar exposure, family income). Dental examination of children were performed and caries prevalence of the patients were recorded. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected from children. Saliva 'cotinine levels' and oxidative stress markers 'total antioxidant status' (TAS), and' total oxidant status' (TOS) were evaluated by using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The obtained data parameters of the two groups were evaluated and comparison was performed.

Inclusion Criteria:

-Systemically healthy children

Exclusion Criteria:

• Uncooperative children
• The presence of orthodontic/intraoral appliance
• Any disease or condition known to affect oxidative stress

Children, referring for dental examination to the Department of Pediatric Dentistry of Kirikkale University, were selected.