The effect of sucrose in medicines on plaque pH

An investigation into the acidogenic potential of six of the most commonly used sugar-containing and sugar-free paediatric medicines was carried out on 10 adult volunteers. The guidelines of the Food, Nutrition and Dental Health Committee of the American Dental Association were followed. Subjects refrained from brushing their teeth for 48 hours and did not eat or drink for at least 2 1/2 hours prior to each appointment. pH measurements were taken at baseline to determine 'resting' plaque pH and at time intervals of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 minutes following a 1-minute rinse with each medication. A pooled sample of plaque was removed from the buccal surfaces of posterior teeth, thoroughly mixed with 20 microliters of distilled water and plaque pH was determined using a glass combination electrode. Data were compared with plaque pH changes after rinsing with control solutions of 10% sucrose and 10% sorbitol. An ANOVA test indicated all sucrose-containing preparations produced a significantly greater drop in plaque pH than their sucrose-free counterparts (P < 0.001). The study provided evidence in support of prescribing sugar-free preparations for children on long-term medication.