Effects of green tea and black tea on salivary pH and flow rate in healthy individuals

Introduction: Saliva is a complex fluid secreted by salivary glands that functions to provide lubrication for chewing, swallowing, and aids in digestion. It also helps to maintain the oral health by protecting against microbial invasion that may lead to oral disease. Green tea and black tea has been reported to have anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic and other health benefits, hence we aimed to study the effect of green tea and black tea on salivary pH and flow rate which has significant role in oral health. Materials and methods: A total of 60 students between the ages of 18 to 23 years were included in the study. The students were divided into two groups as green tea group (Group G) and black tea group (Group B). Saliva samples were collected before and after rinsing with black tea and green tea. The collected saliva was used for estimation of salivary pH and flow rate. Results: In our study there was statistical significant increase in the pH of saliva before and after rinsing with black tea. Also there was statistical significant increase in the saliva flow rate before and after rinsing in both black tea and green tea respectively. On comparison between the green tea and black tea group, there was statistical significant increase in pH (p<0.001) in black tea group. Conclusion: Green tea and black tea have beneficial effect on systemic and oral health through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cariogenic and cancer-preventive properties. The present study demonstrates an increase in salivary pH and flow rate on rinsing with black tea compared to green tea.