Abstract
Purpose: Dental professionals continually educate patients on the dangers of consuming acidic foods and beverages due to their potential to contribute to dental erosion and tooth decay. Excess acid in the diet can also lead to acidosis, which causes negative systemic side effects. However, water is not typically categorized as acidic. The purpose of this in-vitro study was to investigate the pH levels of several popular brands of bottled water and compare them to various other acidic beverages. Two different brands of marketed alkaline water (with a pH of 8.8 or higher) were also studied, tested for acidity and described.
Methods: A pilot in-vitro study was conducted to determine the pH levels of a convenience sample of popular brands of bottled water, tap water and other known acidic beverages in comparison with the pH values reported on the respective manufacturers' website. Each beverage was tested in a laboratory using a calibrated Corning pH meter model 240, and waters were compared to the corresponding company's testified pH value. Waters were also compared and contrasted based on their process of purification. The data was then compiled and analyzed descriptively.
Results: The pH values for the tested beverages and bottled waters were found to be predominantly acidic. Ten out of the 14 beverages tested were acidic (pH<7), 2 municipal (or “tap”) waters were neutral (pH=7) and 2 bottled waters were alkaline (pH>7). The majority of waters tested had a more acidic pH when tested in the lab than the value listed in their water quality reports.
Conclusion: It is beneficial for the health care provider to be aware of the potential acidity of popular bottled drinking waters and educate patients accordingly.
- dental erosion
- acidosis
- streptococcus mutans
- drinking water
- alkaline (mineral) water
- alkaline ionized water
- electrolysis
- water purification
Footnotes
Kellie F. Wright is a Registered Dental Hygienist in Fort Worth, Texas. She received her certificate in dental hygiene from The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Baylor University in Waco, Texas and is also a Certified Child Life Specialist. She currently works part time for a periodontist in Fort Worth, Texas, and part time for a general dentist in Mansfield, Texas.
This study supports the NDHRA priority area, Clinical Dental Hygiene Care: Assess how dental hygienists are using emerging science throughout the dental hygiene process of care.
This project won 1st place in the ADHA/Sigma Phi Alpha Journalism Award Competition, June 2014, under the baccalaureate or degree completion candidate category. Award provided by a generous grant from Johnson & Johnson Healthcare Products, Division of McNEIL PPC, Inc.
- Copyright © 2015 The American Dental Hygienists’ Association
