Comparison of Salivary pH Among Smokers and Non- Smokers by Keeping DMFT at Unity

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effects of smoking on salivary pH and compare it among smokers and non-smokers while keeping DMFT (Decayed Missing Filled Teeth) index at unity. Study Design and Setting: Cross sectional study carried out among young male undergraduate students with age range of 19-25 years at Army Medical College (Rawalpindi) over a period of 2 months from 1st January to 1st March 2018. Methodology: The sample size was 58; from which equally 29 were smokers and 29 were non-smokers. Sample size was calculated by WHO sample size calculator. Unstimulated saliva using a simple drooling method was used to collect in a sterile container from each of the subject. The pH was assessed by using a portable KETOTEK digital pH meter. DMFT was recorded by using dental mirrors and probes under illumination of dental unit. All the readings, along with demographic data were entered in performa. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 24. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Mean salivary pH between the study groups was compared using Independent sample t test. P<0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Total of the 58 study subjects, 29 were smokers and 29 were non-smokers. Mean salivary pH of the whole study sample was 7.2±0.45. A statistically significant difference was observed between smokers and non-smokers; whereas smoker’s salivary pH was significantly lower than that of non-smoker’s (P<0.001). Conclusion: It can be concluded that, the mean salivary pH levels decreases with tobacco consumption in smoked form