Salivary buffer capacity, pH, and stimulated flow rate of crack cocaine users.

Authors :: Woyceichoski IE
Costa CH
de Araújo CM
Brancher JA
Resende LG
Vieira I
de Lima AA
Source :: Journal of investigative and clinical dentistry [J Investig Clin Dent] 2013 Aug; Vol. 4 (3), pp. 160-3. Date of Electronic Publication: 2013 Jan 10.
Publication Year :: 2013
Abstract: Aim: Crack cocaine is the freebase form of cocaine that can be smoked. The use of this drug has been considered a public health problem in many countries. The aim of this study was to assess the stimulated salivary flow rate (SSFR), pH, and the buffer capacity of saliva in crack cocaine users.<br />Methods: Stimulated whole saliva was collected from 54 selected crack cocaine users and 40 non-users. All samples were analyzed for SSFR, pH, and buffer capacity. SSFR was analyzed by gravimetric method. The buffer capacity and pH were determined using a digital pH meter.<br />Results: The crack cocaine users demonstrated higher buffer capacity than the control group (P > 0.05). Salivary pH was lower in crack cocaine users (P < 0.05). Mean values of the SSFR for the experimental and control groups were 1.1 and 1.3 mL/min, respectively (P > 0.05).<br />Conclusion: Crack cocaine users might exhibit a significant decrease in salivary pH, but not in salivary flow rate or buffer capacity.<br /> (© 2012 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.)