XEROSTOMIA IN ORAL MEDICINE: UNDERLYING ETIOLOGIES, CLINICAL CONSEQUENCES, AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Keywords:
Keywords: Xerostomia, dry mouth, reduced saliva, oral health, cancer, radiotherapy, salivary gland, medications, bad breath, tooth decay, subjective symptoms, objective symptoms.Abstract
Abstract: Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common condition that can occur when saliva production is reduced, although some people may feel dryness even with normal saliva levels. it is especially common in older adults and is often caused by medications, certain diseases, or treatments, such as radiotherapy to the head and neck. dry mouth can make everyday activities, particularly speaking, eating, and swallowing uncomfortable, and it can increase the risk of tooth decay and oral infections. diagnosis is based on both the patient’s experience and clinical tests that measure saliva flow. management focuses on treating the underlying cause, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications. early recognition and proper care are important for maintaining comfort and oral health.References
1. Oral Cancer Foundation. Xerostomia (Dry Mouth). https://oralcancerfoundation.org/complications/xerostomia/
2. Pocket Dentistry. Hyposalivation and Xerostomia. https://pocketdentistry.com/hyposalivation-and-xerostomia/
3. World Health Organization (2021). Oral health.
4. The Lancet (2019). Oral health and global burden of disease.
5. Jensen, S. B., et al. (2017). Supportive Care in Cancer.
6. Talha B, Swarnkar SA. Xerostomia. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545287/
7. Oxford Handbook of Clinical Dentistry (7th ed.). Oxford University Press.
8. Wiener RC, Wu B, Crout R, Wiener M, Plassman B, Kao E, et al. Hyposalivation and xerostomia in dentate older adults. Journal of the American Dental Association. 2010;141(3):279–284. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2899485/
9. Oral Cancer Foundation. Xerostomia (Dry Mouth). https://oralcancerfoundation.org/complications/xerostomia/
10. Mayo Clinic. Dry mouth – Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048
