Artificial salivas

Abstract

Quick reference/description Mucosa is hydrated by the continuous flow of watery saliva over the mucosa and by the adhesion of mucins. This helps in keeping the mucosa moist and lubricated. Artificial salivas mimic the viscous nature of saliva but lack the other physical properties of saliva [1, 2]. To supplement any pre-existing saliva, artificial salivas should be complementary to any pre-existing saliva when used with dry mouth patients. Saliva has a lower surface tension than water which is created by the presence of surface active proteins. The low surface tension aids in spreading a thin film over the mucosa [3], but the low surface tension in artificial salivas, due to the presence of certain chemicals, overwhelms the natural surface tension of saliva which speeds evaporation. Indications Xerostomia or dry mouth, swallowing problems, taste disturbances or ulcerated mucosa. Materials/instruments Whole mouth saliva collectors, dry mouth visual analogue scales, Bother Index, Challacombe scale of clinical effects of xerostomia, rheometers were used.