DOI: 10.4103/orcl.orcl_69_25 ISSN: 3050-8630

Assessment of Enamel Erosive Potential of Sour Candies and Cough Drops Available in Indian Market – An In vitro Study

Rose Rex, S. Praveena, Shyam Sivasamy, Preetha Elizabeth Chaly, Karunanidhi Kannappan
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Objective:

This study investigates the enamel erosive potential of sour candies and cough drops available in the Indian market, shedding light on the potential impact of these widely consumed products on dental health. The study aimed to assess the erosive potential of sour candies and cough drops available in the Indian market.

Methods:

This 2-month in vitro study assessed the erosive potential of sour candies and cough drops available in the Indian market by examining pH, titratable acid content, surface softening, and enamel loss. The sample size was estimated as 30, with five tooth specimens in each group, based on the pilot study. Statistical analysis employed parametric tests, with significance of P < 0.05.

Results:

Sour candies, popular among children, exhibited low pH levels (2.7–3.11) and high titratable acid content (2.9–9.1 ml), posing a risk for dental erosion. In contrast, cough drops showed higher pH values (5.15–6.14) and minimal acid content (0.2 ml), indicating a lower erosive potential. Micro hardness tests revealed a significant reduction in sour candies’ hardness after 30 min, whereas cough drops remained unaffected. Surface roughness showed significant changes in sour candies compared to cough drops after 24 h. Cough drops demonstrated relative safety regarding tooth erosion.

Conclusion:

Sour candies exhibited lower pH and higher titratable acid content, causing significant enamel softening compared to cough drops.

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