Saliva Substitutes
“What are saliva substitutes and why are they important?”
Saliva substitutes, which are intended to match the chemical and physical traits of saliva, are available to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth.
“Understanding the role of saliva substitutes in oral health”
- Their composition is varied; however, they usually contain salt ions, a flavoring agent, paraben (preservative), cellulose derivative or animal mucins, and fluoride.
- Most saliva substitutes can be used as desired by patients and are dispensed in spray bottle, rinse/swish bottle, or oral swab stick. In addition, products such as dry-mouth toothpastes and moisturizing gels are also available.
- Biotene products are marketed to relieve the symptoms of Xerostomia.
“Importance of studying saliva substitutes for better oral care”
- Patients with dry mouth may also benefit by stimulating saliva flow with sugarless candies and sugarless gum.
- Xylitol chewing gum has been shown to have anticariogenic properties in children.
- Medicated chewing gum with xylitol and chlorhexidine or Xylitol alone has the added benefits of reducing oral plaque scores and gingivitis in elderly persons who live in residential facilities.
- Salivary substitutes and stimulants are only effective in the short-term..
saliva substitutes
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