Association of Oral Hygiene Products and Their Impact on Oral Health

Abstract

1.Background/Objectives: Oral hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance within the oral cavity. Salivary pH is a key functional marker, closely linked to enamel demineralization–remineralization dynamics and microbial homeostasis. The study aimed to compare the influence of two oral hygiene regimens-using Elmex Anti-Caries Professional toothpaste alone versus its combination with alcohol-free Listerine Coolmint mouthwash-on salivary pH values in young adults. 2.Methods: A controlled crossover design was applied to 30 participants aged 20–30 years. Saliva samples were collected under standardized conditions at 30 minutes and 2 hours after toothbrushing with Elmex toothpaste (Day 1) and after toothbrushing followed by mouthrinse with Listerine Coolmint (Day 2). Salivary pH was assessed using the Saliva Check Buffer kit, which provides semi-quantitative values in 0.5-unit intervals. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.3.Results: Toothbrushing alone maintained salivary pH mostly in the physiological range of 6.5–7.0, while the combined regimen produced a significant alkalinizing effect, with values shifting towards 7.0–7.5 at both time points. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between the two protocols (p < 0.001).4.Conclusion: The combined use of fluoridated toothpaste and alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash enhances salivary pH stability compared with toothbrushing alone, supporting remineralization and reducing acidogenic bacterial activity. These findings provide evidence-based support for integrating complementary oral hygiene products into daily preventive protocols, especially in young adults at increased risk for caries.