J Korean Dent Sci.  2023 Jun;16(1):9-22. 10.5856/JKDS.2023.16.1.9.

Clinical Guidelines to Diagnose and Manage Dental Patients with Hyposalivation and Xerostomia

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Korea
  • 2Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Section of Dentistry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
  • 3Department of Dental Science and Dental Research Institute, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
  • 4Department of Oral Biochemistry, Institute of Oral Bioscience, School of Dentistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Korea
  • 5Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry and Institute of Oral Bioscience, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Korea
  • 6Department of Dentistry/Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea

Abstract

Xerostomia is defined as the subjective complaint of dry mouth with or without hyposalivation, which is insufficient salivary secretion from salivary gland. Xerostomia can lead to multiple oral symptoms such as dental caries, halitosis, burning mouth syndrome, and oral candidiasis, which can significantly impact the well-being of patients, especially in geriatric patients who may already have compromised health. Clinical findings of xerostomia include decreased salivary flow and alterations in salivary composition. These changes can lead to various oral health problems such as dental caries, periodontitis, swallowing and speaking difficulties, taste disturbances, halitosis, mucosal diseases, and burning mouth syndrome. Recognizing these clinical manifestations is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management. Although several reasons and risk factors have been suggested for xerostomia such as aging, chemo-radiation therapy, systemic disease, and Sjögren’s syndrome, the polypharmacy is recently highlighted especially in elderly patients. Understanding the etiology and risk factors associated with xerostomia is crucial for effective management. To manage xerostomia patients, a multidisciplinary guideline should be established beyond dental care. Through this literature review, we summarized consideration for diagnostic, therapeutic, nursing essentials for the clinical guideline. By addressing the underlying causes and implementing appropriate treatment strategies, healthcare professionals can improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from xerostomia.

Keyword

Diagnosis; Guideline; Therapeutics; Xerostomia
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