Effect of consuming young coconut water (Cocos nucifera) on saliva pH levels in the oral cavity

Abstract

including lubrication, fluid balance, prevention of pathogenic bacteria, and maintenance of oral pH to prevent cavities. The balance between acidity and alkalinity in saliva is very important for the function of the oral cavity, with a normal pH range of 6.8 to 7.0. In Indonesia, young coconut water is a drink that is often consumed and easily available with a pH of around 5.5, containing potassium, sodium, calcium, vitamin C, and reducing sugars. Purpose: This study aims to determine the impact of consuming young coconut water (Cocos Nucifera) on the pH level of saliva in the oral cavity. Methods: This research is pre-experimental with pretest and posttest design. The research sample consisted of 30 dental students from the Faculty of Dentistry, Institute of Health Sciences Bhakti Wiyata Kediri in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022, who met the sample criteria. Results: Data were analyzed using the parametric Paired T-Test hypothesis test, with a significance value of 0.000. Conclusion: Young coconut water consumption has an impact on changes in the salivary pH level in the oral cavity.