Impact of alcohol consumption on salivary gland activity in Dental students
Keywords:
CONSUMO DE BEBIDAS ALCOHÓLICAS; ESTUDIANTES DE ODONTOLOGÍA; GLÁNDULAS SALIVALES; SALUD BUCAL.; ALCOHOL DRINKING; STUDENTS, DENTAL; SALIVARY GLANDS; ORAL HEALTH.; CONSUMO DE BEBIDAS ALCOÓLICAS; ESTUDANTES DE ODONTOLOGIA; GLÂNDULAS SALIVARES; SAÚDE BUCAL.Abstract
Introduction: alcohol consumption among university students is a frequent habit that can alter salivary function and predispose individuals to relevant oral complications.
Objective: to evaluate the impact of alcohol consumption on salivary gland activity in Dental students from Ambato.
Methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 with a non-probabilistic (intentional) sample of 40 students from the third and ninth semesters of Dentistry. The validated AUDIT questionnaire was applied, and salivary pH was measured using reactive strips, allowing the collection of data for the analyzed variables. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed, respecting medical ethics.
Results: a total of 42,5 % of students reported consuming alcohol once a month or less, and 37,5 % between two and four times per month. Most participants (72,5 %) ingested one or two drinks on a normal day, while only 5 % reached between seven and nine drinks. Fifty-five percent never consumed six or more drinks in a single occasion. Regarding consequences, 77,5 % never experienced inability to stop drinking, and 67,5 % did not report impairment in their responsibilities. Ninety-five percent showed salivary pH within normal ranges, while 5 % presented low values associated with risk of xerostomia.
Conclusions: the study reveals moderate consumption patterns in most students, with low prevalence of dependence and limited effects on salivary function, although risk cases requiring preventive attention were identified.
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References
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