CARUBIA-THESIS-2017.pdf (1.22 MB)
The Effect of Dried Fruits on Children’s Salivary Bacteria
thesis
posted on 2017-11-01, 00:00 authored by Lucas R CarubiaPurpose: To investigate whether chewing and consuming selected dried fruits affect the viability of salivary bacteria in children.
Methods: Fifteen 7 to 12 years old children of all genders and race enrolled in this randomized controlled, crossover study. The children refrained from oral hygiene the night before and the morning of the testing. A baseline non-stimulated whole saliva sample was first collected over a five-minute period. The participants then chewed 20g of one of the dried test fruits (raisins, craisins or banana chips) or the control (a non-flavored gum base) for five minutes. Their saliva samples were collected 30 minutes after test fruits consumption, then serially diluted and the total viable bacterial counts (CFU/ml) before and after consumption were determined. There was a three-day washout period between visits.
Results: After chewing and consuming craisins (dried cranberries), there was a reduction of total salivary bacterial counts of 3.39% (P<.01). The other test foods did not reduce salivary bacteria. Significant difference in reduction was noted between craisins and banana chips or craisins and raisins.
Conclusions: After chewing and consuming, dried fruits such as craisins reduced salivary bacteria in children between 7-12 years of age. These dried fruits may be a healthier alternative over the popular sugary snacks while providing protective benefits against oral pathogens and contribute to oral health.
History
Advisor
Wu, Christine DChair
Wu, Christine DDepartment
Pediatric DentistryDegree Grantor
University of Illinois at ChicagoDegree Level
- Masters