pH analysis of still and carbonated bottled water: Potential influence on dental erosion

To assess pH values to characterize bottled water in Portugal, being able to provide information for both patients and clinicians about its erosive potential, as a tool to prevent the ingrowing prevalence of dental erosion and its progression, especially in patients who are at greater risk, such as those with dry mouth syndrome, making the dissemination of this knowledge a fundamental tool for clinical decision.

One hundred and five common brands of bottled water (n = 105), commercialized in Portugal, were analyzed. Of these, 73 were smooth water (Group A) and 32 carbonated water (Group B). All pH values were assessed by potentiometric measurement with a calibrated electrode. For each brand, five independent measurements were recorded at 25°C for further calculation of the mean pH value and standard deviation.

Focusing on the mean pH values from Group A, one had a pH mean value lower than 5.2, four between 5.2 and 5.5, thirty-seven between 5.5 and 6.8, and thirty-one higher than 6.8. In Group B, ten had a mean pH value lower than 5.2, ten between 5.2 and 5.5, twelve between 5.5 and 6.8, and none above 6.8.

Bottled water, commercialized in Portugal, has different mean pH values, some below the critical threshold of enamel and/or dentin, suggesting that they may have a greater risk of consumption than others, only with respect to the pH parameter of erosive potential. Further investigation concerning this area is needed for wider conclusions.