The Importance of pH
The Buffer System
PH measures the Acidity or Alkalinity of a solution: 0>6 Acidic – 6>8 Neutral – 8>14 Alkaline.
The body’s metabolic processes cause constant fluctuations in pH. To help prevent various disorders, the body relies on a buffer system that keeps pH levels in balance.
In the oral cavity, this role is performed by Saliva, which contains Bicarbonate – a compound whose key property is the neutralisation of acids. Every time we consume food or beverages, the salivary buffer system activates, and in a healthy individual, it takes approximately 30 minutes to restore pH balance (Stephan Curve).
Related Articles
Cavities
Dental Erosion
Tooth Sensitivity
Reflux
Oral thrush
Xerostomia
PROPERTIES OF SALIVA
Saliva plays a fundamental role in the formation of the food bolus during chewing, initiates the digestive process, helps wash away bacteria from oral surfaces, and – through its buffering effect provided by the Bicarbonate it contains – counteracts the drop in pH caused by food, beverages, and the metabolic activity of bacteria present in dental plaque.
Cariex® supports the salivary buffer system, enriching saliva with bicarbonate and thereby preventing the drop in pH.
WHY IT ERODES
Tooth enamel erodes due to four main mechanisms: Erosion, caused by contact with acidic substances; Attrition, resulting from tooth-to-tooth friction; Abrasion, caused by friction between teeth and external factors; and Abfraction, resulting from mechanical stress related to chewing.
Cariex® raises oral pH, making enamel richer in minerals and therefore more resistant to erosive processes. Its use is strongly recommended in the presence of enamel wear.
ACIDIC pH IS THE ENEMY
Acidic pH causes the loss of minerals (calcium and phosphate) from the enamel. Calcium and phosphate work alongside the bicarbonate naturally present in saliva to restore pH to a neutral level. Persistent acidic conditions lead to mineral depletion of the enamel, which may ultimately result in a carious lesion or dental erosion.
Cariex®, based on bicarbonate, controls oral pH by maintaining it at an alkaline level, thereby helping to prevent the loss of dental tissue.
WHY DO TEETH BECOME SENSITIVE?
When a tooth loses its enamel or the gums recede, the tooth becomes sensitive to thermal stimuli because an underlying layer of the tooth (dentine) is exposed – a tissue rich in tiny channels (dentinal tubules) that are directly connected to the nerve-rich area of the tooth (pulp). While gum recession is primarily attributed to periodontal disease, enamel loss – which is permanent – results from Abrasion (brushing and bruxism) and Erosion (excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages).
Clinical experience has demonstrated that Cariex® is capable of significantly reducing pain symptoms associated with dentinal hypersensitivity. The immediate use of Cariex® following the consumption of food or beverages inhibits the effects of acidic stimuli and, by preventing tissue demineralisation, makes at-home supportive therapy more effective and faster-acting.
WHEN SALIVA IS INSUFFICIENT
The term Xerostomia refers to the absence or marked reduction of saliva (dry mouth). It is highly prevalent among the elderly and affects approximately one quarter of the population. Reduced salivary flow may also be caused by: anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, diabetes, radio- or chemotherapy, medications, and conditions such as Sjögren’s Syndrome.
When saliva is insufficient, the buffer system is lost, leaving the oral cavity in a persistently acidic state – making patients highly susceptible to cavities, infections, oral Candidiasis (thrush), and Halitosis.
Cariex® serves as an effective saliva substitute, thanks to its bicarbonate content. Bicarbonate dissolves in water and carbon dioxide in the presence of acidity, meaning Cariex® can be used repeatedly throughout the day and during the night by applying the spray directly to the oral mucosa, with no contraindications or side effects.
In addition to restoring the oral cavity to a neutral pH, its combination with Xylitol proves effective in counteracting bacteria and infections. Furthermore, the presence of Hyaluronic Acid supports tissue healing processes, keeping the mucous membranes moisturised and reducing discomfort.
Cariex® is easy to use: simply apply three sprays whenever you experience a sensation of dryness and after every meal.