A glass of water activates the protective mechanisms of the oral cavity.
Scientists from the University of California, San Francisco, have shown that just one glass of water can activate the natural protective mechanisms of the oral cavity within an hour. The study, published in Frontiers in Oral Health, proved that water improves up to seven indicators related to the risk of cavities—more effectively than apple juice or complete absence of beverages.
The experiment involved 105 children aged five to ten who were undergoing a dental check-up. After a baseline saliva analysis, the participants were randomly divided into three groups: one drank 500 milliliters of water, another drank 200 milliliters of apple juice, and the third received no beverages. After 45-60 minutes, the researchers re-analyzed the saliva samples, assessing pH, buffering capacity, enzymes, immunoglobulins, and insulin levels.
Thus, children who drank water showed normalized indicators significantly more often: their saliva became less acidic, the activity of enzymes involved in enamel breakdown decreased, while protective proteins increased.
According to the authors, the effect is related to the fact that water quickly restores saliva balance, reducing acidity and osmolarity, and also promotes the normal functioning of the oral immune mechanisms. The scientists emphasize that such a simple measure as replacing sugary drinks with water can become an accessible way to prevent cavities and inflammatory gum diseases in children.
