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Salivary gland function and glucose metabolic status
G Cherry-Peppers1, J Sorkin, R Andres
1Clinical Investigations and Patient Care Branch, National Institute of Dental Research, Bethesda, Maryland.
Journal of Gerontology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Altered glucose metabolism, including diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance, does not significantly affect salivary gland function in generally healthy individuals. Salivary flow rates remain normal, suggesting no major oral health issues related to glucose control.
Area of Science:
- Oral Physiology
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Glucose metabolic status is a critical health indicator.
- Salivary gland function is essential for oral health.
- Age and metabolic conditions may impact salivary function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between glucose metabolic status and salivary gland function.
- To assess salivary gland function in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and controls.
- To examine age-related differences in salivary function among these groups.
Main Methods:
- Study participants included individuals with DM, IGT, and healthy controls, aged 24-93.
- Salivary flow rates (unstimulated and stimulated) were measured for parotid and submandibular glands.
- Subjective reports of salivary hypofunction were collected.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences in salivary flow rates were found between DM, IGT, and control groups.
- No significant differences were observed between younger and older subjects with altered glucose metabolism.
- Subjective reports of salivary hypofunction did not differ significantly across groups.
Conclusions:
- Well-controlled individuals with altered glucose metabolism do not exhibit significantly impaired salivary gland function.
- Glucose metabolic status, within the studied range, does not appear to be a primary determinant of salivary hypofunction.
- Salivary gland function is likely preserved in individuals with DM and IGT if generally healthy and well-managed.