Related Experiment Videos
Oral mucous membrane flora in patients using saliva substitutes
G Johansson1, G Andersson, R Attstöm
1Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden. Gunvor.Johansson@od.mah.se
Gerodontology
|January 26, 2002
Summary
Saliva substitutes, including linseed extract and carboxymethyl cellulose, did not alter oral micro-organisms in patients with reduced salivary flow. This suggests these products are safe for oral health during short-term use.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Salivary substitutes are beneficial for individuals with xerostomia (dry mouth), often caused by radiotherapy or aging.
- The impact of these substitutes on the oral microbiome remains a key area of investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbial changes on oral mucous membranes during the use of two different saliva substitutes.
- To assess the effect of saliva substitutes on the oral flora in patients with radiation-induced xerostomia.
Main Methods:
- A cross-over, single-blind study involving 19 patients with reduced salivary secretion post-radiotherapy.
- Patients used two types of saliva substitutes (linseed extract and carboxymethyl cellulose) for three-week periods.
- Microbial samples were collected and analyzed to compare oral flora before and during substitute use.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed in the oral microflora when comparing baseline samples to those taken during substitute use.
- There were no significant variations in microbial presence between the two tested saliva substitutes.
Conclusions:
- Short-term use of linseed extract and carboxymethyl cellulose preparations does not appear to influence the oral flora commonly associated with dental caries, periodontitis, or oral infections.
- These findings support the safety of these saliva substitutes regarding their impact on the oral microbiome.