Impact of a modified carbonated beverage on human dental plaque and salivary pH: An in vivo study

Background: To assess the plaque and salivary pH changes at different time intervals in vivo after consumption of a carbonated beverage modified with sodium fluoride and calcium phosphate. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four subjects aged 18-25 years were recruited and randomly assigned to three groups (group A, original drink sprite; group B, sprite with sodium fluoride; group C, sprite with calcium phosphate). Collection of pooled plaque and unstimulated saliva was done before and after the drinks were consumed by the subjects at 5-, 10-, 20- and 30-minute intervals. Results: The pH rise was higher with group C for plaque and group B for saliva. Conclusions: Modification of the test carbonated beverage with calcium phosphate and fluoride may exert some protective potential, especially in high caries risk candidates