Did you know that our saliva has a secret superpower? The pH balance of saliva is crucial for our teeth. In this article you will find out why!
If you read our blog often, you probably already know that our skin has an acidic pH (of 5.5). But do you know what the pH of our mouth is like?
In this article, we'll explain everything to you.
Oral health is essential for children's overall well-being. An often overlooked but crucial factor is the pH of our mouth.
This pH is largely influenced by our saliva.
Understanding the interaction between saliva pH and toothpaste choice can help prevent cavities and other common dental problems in our energetic little ones.
What is Saliva pH and Why is it Important?
pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. For example, Coca-Cola has a pH of 2, making it acidic. Soap has a pH of 9, making it alkaline. A neutral pH is around 7. Unlike our skin, which has a pH of 5.5, saliva, as a biological fluid, has a pH that can vary. Indeed, saliva can be slightly acidic or alkaline, depending on our state of health and our diet. Ideally, saliva pH is between 6.2 and 7.6.
An overly acidic salivary pH (below 5.5) can promote demineralization of tooth enamel, leading to cavities and disrupting the mouth's microbiome.
The Role of Toothpaste in pH Balance
Toothpaste plays a crucial role in maintaining the pH balance of saliva. Good children's toothpaste should not only effectively clean teeth but also help neutralize acids in the mouth. Here are some key characteristics to look for in children's toothpaste:
1. Fluoride: Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. However, it is important to monitor the amount of fluoride in children's toothpaste to avoid dental fluorosis. In France, it is essential to follow the latest UFSBD recommendations.
2. Gentle Ingredients: Children have sensitive gums. It is therefore crucial to choose toothpastes with gentle ingredients and without strong abrasive agents like sodium coco (lauryl) sulfate which could damage tooth enamel.
3. Neutral or slightly Alkaline pH: A toothpaste with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH can help neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing the risk of cavities. Be careful, not all toothpastes containing sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate can maintain the optimal pH, as these two synthetic preservatives work in an acidic environment, below 5. If you see a powdered or paste toothpaste that contains sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate, the pH is definitely not good for little enamel.
4. Polyol: Some polyols like erythritol and xylitol have the role of neutralizing mouth acidity.
Tips for Maintaining a Good Saliva pH
As well as choosing the right toothpaste, here are some tips to help maintain a good saliva pH in children:
Hydration: Make sure children drink enough water throughout the day to help maintain a good salivary flow.
Balanced Diet: Limit sweet or acidic food and drinks that can lower saliva pH. Consume more alkaline foods than acidic foods.
Regular Oral Hygiene: Encourage children to brush their teeth twice a day and use dental floss to remove food debris and dental plaque.
Conclusion
Saliva pH is a crucial aspect of children's oral health. By choosing appropriate toothpaste and following good oral hygiene practices, you can help maintain the pH balance of saliva, thus protecting your children's teeth from cavities and other dental problems. Take care of their smiles today for a healthier future! LiLiKiWi toothpastes have a pH of 7.2, ideal for little mouths.
For more information on our dental care products specially designed for children, visit our website or contact us directly coucou@lilikiwi.fr.