Related Experiment Videos
Modulation of nitrate-nitrite conversion in the oral cavity
J M van Maanen1, A A van Geel, J C Kleinjans
1Department of Health Risk Analysis and Toxicology, University of Limburg, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Cancer Detection and Prevention
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Reducing oral nitrate to nitrite can form harmful compounds. Chlorhexidine mouthwash significantly decreased this conversion, while other agents had no effect. pH-regulating gum increased nitrite levels.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Ingested nitrate can convert to nitrite in the mouth, potentially leading to methemoglobinemia and carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds.
- Understanding and modulating this oral conversion is crucial for reducing health risks associated with dietary nitrate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate methods for modulating the oral conversion of nitrate to nitrite.
- To assess the efficacy of various mouthwash solutions and oral care products in reducing nitrite formation.
Main Methods:
- Salivary nitrate and nitrite levels were measured in subjects after nitrate ingestion.
- The effects of antiseptic mouthwashes (chlorhexidine, triclosan), enzyme-based solutions, toothpaste, and pH-regulating chewing gum were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Salivary nitrate conversion to nitrite averaged 16.1% without intervention.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash reduced nitrate conversion to 0.9%.
- Triclosan mouthwash, enzyme solutions, triclosan/zinc citrate toothpaste, and pH-regulating gum showed no significant reduction in nitrate conversion; the gum increased nitrite levels.
Conclusions:
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash is effective in inhibiting oral nitrate to nitrite conversion.
- Other tested oral care products do not significantly reduce this conversion.
- Oral pH modulation may enhance, rather than inhibit, nitrite formation.