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The acidogenic potential of different milk formulas on dental plaque pH

Ananda S Raju1, Mythri Hirehal, Prashant G Manjunath

  • 1Department of Community Dentistry, Sri Hasanamba Dentla College, Hassan, Karnataka 573201, India. dr.anandsr@yahoo.co.in

Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry
|October 25, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Infant milk formulas significantly reduce dental plaque pH, increasing the risk of early childhood caries (ECC). Parents and clinicians should be aware of these effects when choosing formulas.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Dental Public Health
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Dental plaque pH is a critical factor in the demineralization-remineralization balance of tooth enamel.
  • Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a prevalent oral health issue in young children, influenced by diet.
  • Infant formulas are a primary dietary source for many young children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of different commercial infant milk formulas on dental plaque pH.
  • To compare the buffering capacity of various infant formulas.
  • To assess the cariogenic potential of infant formulas based on their effect on plaque pH.

Main Methods:

  • Six commercial infant milk formulas were tested on ten children aged 7-10 years.
  • Plaque pH was measured using a combination electrode after rinsing with formulas, sucrose solution (positive control), and deionized water (negative control).
  • Statistical analysis included Tukey's multiple comparison test to determine significant differences (P < 0.05).

Main Results:

  • All tested infant formulas significantly reduced plaque pH below pre-rinse levels and water control.
  • Each formula exhibited a variable buffering effect, with Lactodex showing the highest (20.13%) and Nestogen the lowest (9.21%).
  • The observed pH drop ranged from 0.72 (Farex) to 0.98 (Nan).

Conclusions:

  • Infant formulas can significantly lower dental plaque pH, contributing to the etiology of ECC.
  • Awareness of formula-specific effects on pH is crucial for parents and clinicians.
  • Findings may inform the development of more tooth-friendly infant food options.
Abstract

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