How to perform a saliva pH test?

Follow the steps below to accurately perform a saliva pH test:

1. Wash and Dry Your Hands - Before handling the test strips, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to prevent any contamination. Dry your hands completely using a clean towel.
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2. Prepare the Test Strip - Carefully open the test strip pouch and remove one strip. To maintain the integrity of the remaining strips, immediately reseal the pouch, ensuring it is airtight.
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3. Obtain a Saliva Sample - Spit a small amount of saliva into a clean, dry container. Make sure the saliva does not have bubbles, as these can interfere with the accuracy of the test. It's best to collect saliva that has been in your mouth for a few seconds, rather than freshly produced saliva, to ensure a more accurate reading.
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4. Apply Saliva to the Test Strip
   
   • With a Dropper - Use a clean dropper to place a single drop of saliva onto the test pads on the strip. Ensure that both test pads are fully covered with saliva for an accurate reading.
   • By Dipping - Alternatively, dip the test strip into the saliva container for about 3 seconds. Make sure both pads on the strip are fully submerged and coated with saliva.
   • Remove Excess Saliva - Carefully blot the side of the test strip on a paper towel to remove any excess saliva. This step helps to prevent the pads from becoming oversaturated, which could lead to inaccurate results.
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5. Timing and Reading the Results

• Start timing immediately after applying the saliva. Wait for exactly 30 seconds.
• After 30 seconds, compare the color of the test pads to the corresponding row of color blocks on the provided color key. Do this in a well-lit area to ensure you can accurately match the colors.
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It's important to read the results precisely at the 30-second mark. Any color changes that occur after one minute should be disregarded, as they do not hold any diagnostic value.