Unravelling the benefits of thermal water for oral health

Correia, Maria J.; Lopes, Sara; Morgado, Susana; Gomes, Ana T. P. C.; Lopes, Pedro C.; Veiga, Nélio

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.14/55406

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Abstract(s)

Thermal waters (TW) have been valued since ancient times for their unique properties. Sulfurous TW treat dermatological conditions and respiratory infections, while chlorinated TW aid healing, bone health, and digestive function through anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. Despite limited studies on TW, research highlights their antioxidant, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory effects, including reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. In France, TW is widely used for therapeutic purposes, including oral mucosa diseases (OMD) like aphthous ulcers, lichen planus, and gingivitis, applied via gargles and sprays. Notably, Buccotherm®, developed by Castéra-Verduzan, offers oral hygiene products targeting periodontal disease, xerostomia, halitosis, and oral inflammation. In Portugal, TW are highly regarded, with their use supported by the National Health Service (SNS) and regulated by legislation to ensure quality standards. Although most thermal centers address respiratory and musculoskeletal conditions, none of the Portuguese TW have been tested for treating OMD or other oral conditions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of thermal water therapy on the oral health of the participants, assessing parameters such as plaque index, gingival bleeding index and periodontal probing depth as well on the perception of symptoms of oral mucosa diseases (OMD). In this observational, longitudinal and comparative study 90 thermalists were randomly allocated to two treatment groups for 14 days: Thermal sulfuric natural mineral water of the Amarante Thermal baths group (TW_TA group) (n = 45) or saline solution (control group) (n = 45), in May 2022. The study was based on clinical observation and application of a self-response questionnaire involving sociodemographic data and quality of life assessment. The evaluation was carried out in 2 different moments: before and at the end of treatment (14 days). This work showed that thermal water promoted significant improvements in oral health parameters, namely a reduction in gingival bleeding and a reduction of the plaque levels. Quality of life related to OMD also improved after thermal treatment. While the interaction between treatment and control groups was not statistically significant, there was a clear overall reduction in symptoms, indicating the beneficial effects of thermal treatment.

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http://hdl.handle.net/10400.14/55406

Citation

Correia, M. J., Lopes, S., Morgado, S., & Gomes, A. T. P. C. et al. (2025). Unravelling the benefits of thermal water for oral health. Poster session presented at 103rd General Session & Exhibition of the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) , Barcelona, Spain.