Differences in Saliva pH before and after Drinking Packed Cow’s Milk in Children Aged 6 -12 Years

Abstract

Background: The main factors that cause dental caries are the host (teeth and saliva), substrate (food), microorganisms, and time. Saliva as a host factor plays a role in protective mechanisms. Several factors cause changes in salivary pH to include the average salivary flow rate, oral microorganisms, salivary buffer capacity, and frequently consumed foods and beverages; One of them is milk. Objective: To investigate the differences in salivary pH before and after drinking packed cow’s milk in children aged 6-12 years old. Methods: Quasi-experimental research methods were conducted using Pretest and Posttest Control Group Designs. The instruments in this study used a pH meter. Statistical Test using Student t-Test. Results: There is no difference in the average pH of saliva 0 minutes after drinking cow's milk packaged brand A and brand B (p= 0.772 and p=0.384, respectively). There is an average difference in salivary pH 5 minutes after drinking cow's milk packaged brand A and brand B (p=0.001). The results of the analysis between 5 minutes after drinking liquid milk packaged brand A with brand B there was a significant difference in reducing the pH of saliva (p = 0.001). Conclusion: There is a difference in salivary pH before and after drinking packed cow's milk in children aged 6-12 years.
 Keywords: Salivary pH, Packed cow’s milk, Elementary School