Saliva Substitutes

Saliva Substitutes

Saliva substitutes, which are intended to match the chemical and physical traits of saliva, are available to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth.

• 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.
• 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.