Effects of bittern water on cariogenic bacteria and saliva secretion.

The effects of bittern water (BW), obtained from the ocean floor, on cariogenic bacteria and saliva secretion were examined. Streptococcus mutans was mixed with BW for 1, 3, 5, 10, and 20 min to explore the bactericidal effects of BW against cariogenic bacteria. Bacterial viability was calculated by counting the number of colony-forming units on Brain Heart Infusion agar plates. The results indicated a bacterial viability of more than 35% even after 20 min of incubation. Subsequently, the effects of BW on saliva secretion and the salivary concentration of secretory IgA (sIgA) were examined. Gargling with BW significantly augmented saliva secretion. Although the sIgA concentration was reduced, the total sIgA secreted into saliva was increased significantly. Our findings indicate that the use of BW may be a new strategy for the treatment of various oral diseases, including dry mouth.