Abstract
BACKGROUND: The consumption of sugary snacks like candies alters the oral environment, increasing the risk of dental caries. This study evaluates changes in salivary pH, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) following the consumption of candies and yogurt. AIM: To compare the impact of candies on the oral environment and assess the effectiveness of rinsing with water versus consuming yogurt in reversing cariogenic changes in saliva. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Baseline saliva samples (5 mL) were collected from 60 children. Participants consumed candies, and saliva was collected 10 min post-consumption. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 rinsed with water, and Group 2 consumed yogurt. Saliva samples were collected at 10, 20 and 30 min post-intervention and analyzed for pH, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and TAC. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and post hoc Tukey tests. RESULTS: Candy consumption significantly decreased pH, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels (p < 0.001) and increased TAC levels (p < 0.001). Both water rinsing and yogurt consumption reversed these changes. Yogurt showed superior remineralization, with pH, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels returning to baseline more effectively than water rinsing (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). TAC levels were also restored more quickly with yogurt (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Candy consumption induces a cariogenic environment. Both water rinsing and yogurt consumption effectively reversed these effects, with yogurt showing enhanced remineralization potential.