Analysis of Salivary pH in Healthy and Diseased Periodontium among Young and Elderly Adults.

INTRODUCTION

Salivary pH plays a vital role in oral health. Variations in salivary pH influence the progression of periodontal diseases, dental caries, and systemic conditions. This study aimed to compare salivary pH levels between individuals with healthy and diseased periodontium across different age groups and genders.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 subjects, categorised into eight groups (n = 10 each) based on age (young/elderly), gender, and periodontal status (healthy/diseased). Unstimulated saliva was collected and analyzed using an electrometric pH meter. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and post hoc tests.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed in salivary pH between young women with diseased periodontium (pH, 7.090) and those with healthy periodontium (pH, 6.704) (P = 0.001). No significant differences were found among other groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Salivary pH varies with periodontal health status and gender, highlighting its potential as a noninvasive diagnostic marker for periodontal disease.