Evaluation of the efficacy of some preventive measures on their ability to restrict fall in salivary pH after consumption of carbonated drinks

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Salivary pH is important for healthy enamel of the teeth. Consumption of carbonated beverages leads to a drop in salivary pH which favors the growth of microorganisms, leading to dental caries. This study evaluates the efficacy of preventive measures in resisting change of salivary pH after consumption of carbonated drink. Materials and Methods: The study consisted of four experiments (1 to 4), conducted with thirty-seven participants: consumption of drink, 1) directly from the glass, 2) Using a straw. Preventive measures post consumption of carbonated drink, 3) rinsing the mouth with water, and 4) chewing sugar free gum. The salivary pH was measured using pH paper narrow range at the basal level, and at <1, and 5 to 30 min post consumption of the drink. The data was analysed by descriptive statistics and the intergroup comparisons were done using ANOVA and Tukey test. Results: In all the four experiments there was an increase in salivary pH at the <1 min and a significant decrease in salivary pH at 5-20 min (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in the salivary pH between the two modes of drink consumption (p>0.05). Post consumption of drink, chewing gum resisted the fall in pH for a longer duration of 5-20 min than rinsing the mouth with water 5-10 min (p<0.000). Conclusion: Post consumption of the carbonated beverages, preventive measures such as rinsing the mouth with water and chewing gum resist the fall in pH of saliva. Chewing gum is more effective than rinsing the mouth with water.