Evaluation of enamel solubility on exposure to hard drinks: An in-vitro study

Abstract

Introduction: Frequent and prolonged exposure to low pH may result in a more rapid demineralization of the enamel surface. When compared to soft drinks, a person tends to consume the same quantity of hard drinks for longer duration at each episode. Even though exposure of drinks to oral cavity may remain for 2-3 minutes but it causes drop in pH which takes longer time to resume back to normal levels. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate and compare enamel solubility of teeth on exposure to hard drinks over different intervals of time. Materials and Method: Enamel solubility will be checked in 3 different beverages like soft drink, hard drinks and water (control) for different intervals of time. Two types of hard drinks (Beer & Whisky) will be included in the study. Extracted, Non-carious permanent incisors and molars 15 each will be selected. The amount of loss of calcium will be determined by the weight loss of the tooth. The calcium that will be released into the beverages will be determined by using Calcium Reagent Set and measured using Semi Automatic Analyser. Results: Mean calcium loss is found to be significant in soft drink. While, in hard drinks, it is more in beer and concentrated whisky.