The effect of chewing sorbitol-sweetened gum on salivary flow and cemental plaque pH in subjects with low salivary flow

J Clin Dent. 1990;2(1):3-5.

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to study the effect of chewing a sorbitol-sweetened gum on whole and parotid salivary flow rates, and on the cemental plaque pH response to a sucrose rinse challenge, in subjects with low salivary flow. The results show that chewing a flavored sugarless gum significantly increases salivary flow rates in individuals with dry mouth. Additionally, chewing the sorbitol-sweetened gum effectively prevents the fall in cemental plaque pH generally seen in response to a sucrose challenge. This indicates that chewing a sorbitol-sweetened gum provides a palliative and possibly a protective benefit for people who suffer from dry mouth.

MeSH terms

  • Chewing Gum*
  • Dental Cementum / metabolism
  • Dental Plaque / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Parotid Gland / metabolism
  • Salivation*
  • Secretory Rate
  • Sorbitol
  • Xerostomia / physiopathology
  • Xerostomia / therapy*

Substances

  • Chewing Gum
  • Sorbitol