Evaluation of the cariogenicity of sugar containing drinks by estimating changes in pH of human dental plaque and saliva.

Cariogenicity of five commonly consumed carbonated beverage and sugar containing drinks (Frooti, sugarcane juice, Limca, Thumps up and Big Sipp) was evaluated by estimating changes in pH of human dental plaque and saliva in 2 groups of subjects (20 each) differing in caries experience (Group A DMFT zero; Group B DMFT 3-5). In group A subjects, pH of plaque did not fall to levels near critical pH (5.5) with any of the test drinks or control. However, in group B children the salivary pH did fall below critical levels in the case of Frooti while salivary pH fell below critical pH with Frooti and Thums up.