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Related Experiment Videos

Xerostomia: a prevalent condition in the elderly.

F C Astor1, K L Hanft, J O Ciocon

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Ft. Lauderdale 33309, USA.

Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|August 3, 1999
PubMed
Summary

Dry mouth (xerostomia) in older adults is rarely due to aging itself. It often stems from medications, systemic diseases, or treatments like radiation therapy, impacting oral health and function.

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Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Oral Medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Xerostomia (dry mouth) is often mistakenly attributed to aging.
  • Salivary gland function remains largely intact in healthy older adults.

Observation:

  • Saliva composition changes with age, increasing viscosity due to decreased ptyalin and increased mucin.
  • Medications (anticholinergics, diuretics), chronic mouth breathing, radiation, dehydration, and autoimmune diseases (Sjögren's) are common causes.
  • Systemic illnesses like diabetes, nephritis, and thyroid dysfunction can also reduce salivation.

Findings:

  • Xerostomia can lead to taste disturbances (dysgeusia), tongue pain (glossodynia), salivary gland inflammation (sialadenitis), oral lesions, and bad breath (halitosis).
  • Reduced saliva impacts denture stability, chewing, and swallowing.
  • Patients with dry mouth are at increased risk for dental caries.

Implications:

  • Treatment involves hydration, sialagogues, artificial saliva substitutes, and preventive dental care.
  • Pilocarpine shows promise for managing xerostomia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome or post-radiation therapy.

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