How to Manage Xerostomia in Prosthodontics???

Abstract

Saliva is known as the mirror of the body. It is not only essential for retention of removable prosthesis but also protects the oral mucosa from injury by its lubricating effect. Xerostomia or hyposalivation is a commonly encountered condition especially among the elderly that needs to be treated to improve quality of life in denture wearers. This article reviews the various etiologic factors and treatment modalities in patients with xerostomia.

Prosthodontic Management of Xerostomic Patient: A Technical Modification

“…But this case report provides various methods of treatment that cater to both the need of xerostomia and lack of retention due to resorbed ridges in completely edentulous patients. Since the quality and quantity of saliva have an important role in the success of complete dentures, the patients with hyposalivation need to be treated to prevent adverse effects on the oral mucosa [ 5 , 6 ].…”

“…Xerostomia, a clinical condition caused by a decrease in the production of saliva, may present itself as a local symptom, as part of a systemic disease such as Sjogren's syndrome, diabetes, and alcoholism, or as a side effect of medications and other conditions such as menopause, following therapeutic radiation to the head and neck regions and vitamin deficiencies [ 2 – 6 ]. A temporary decrease could be from emotional reaction or sialolithiasis [ 1 ].…”

“…Sugar-free gum or candies/lozenges may help to increase salivary output, and also drinking water on a regular basis [ 2 – 4 , 6 , 7 ]. Symptomatic relief can be provided by treatment with parasympathomimetics such as pilocarpine hydrochloride or neostigmine bromide [ 4 , 6 , 7 ]. Artificial saliva and salivary substitutes are other means of managing xerostomia.…”

“…Saliva substitutes mainly consist of aqueous solutions containing the same mineral salts as those found in human saliva. To provide easier application of artificial saliva, an intraoral saliva reservoir in the hollowed lingual flange of a mandibular denture or palatal reservoir is also the technique of choice [ 6 ].…”

A Novel Technique of incorporating Salivary Reservoir in a Complete Denture Patient: A Case Report

“…[1,4] Another approach of providing the optimal lubrication in an edentulous patient is by reservoir denture. [5] Thus, it is important for the dentist to properly plan the treatment in a complete denture patient. This case paper presents a case of an edentulous patient suffering from aplastic anaemia who was successfully treated with a simple but effective form of reservoir denture.…”