Comparison of Changes in Salivary pH Postexposure to Carbonated Beverage and After Using Five Different Methods of Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

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Abstract Background: Carbonated beverage is known to reduce salivary pH and may even reduce it to critical levels resulting in structural damage to teeth. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the effect of a carbonated drink on salivary pH and compare changes in pH after intervention measures chlorhexidine mouthwash (chx), sodium bicarbonate rinse (soda), polyol-containing chewing gum (gum), brushing with fluoridated toothpaste (paste), and rinsing with water (water); following exposure to carbonated drink. Materials and Methods: Thirty participants in this 6-arm crossover trial consumed carbonated beverage, and 15 min later, they used any one of the above interventions. pH of saliva was recorded before consumption of beverage, 5, and 15 min after consumption and 15, 30, and 45 min after the secondary intervention. In the control group, no secondary intervention was applied. Results: Mean baseline salivary pH was 6.7 (±0.31). Salivary pH returned to baseline between 15 and 30 min after using chx, brush, and soda. pH when using gum, water, and control remained significantly lower than baseline after 60 min of consumption of beverage. Conclusion: Carbonated beverage can alter the pH of saliva to critical levels. The use of interventions such as chx, brush, and soda can restore it to normal range.