Sjögren’s syndrome: treatments for dry mouth and hyposalivation

shutterstock_44704711

36 studies were included in this review of treatment options for xerostomia, hyposalivation and quality of life in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome provinding evidence to support pilocarpine use. However the number of studies were limited and adverse effects were common.

[read the full story...]

Insufficient evidence for effects of non-pharmacological interventions for the relief of dry mouth

shutterstock_113850397

It has been estimated that between 10-26% of men and 10-33% of women experience dry mouth. The subjective sensation of dry mouth is called xerostomia and can be found in people with normal salivary gland function. The normal range of salivary production ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 litres per day.  The aim of this Cochrane [read the full story…]

No strong evidence for any topical treatments for relieving the symptoms of dry mouth

shutterstock_82790428

The subjective sensation of dry mouth or xerostomia is a common symptom and estimates of the prevalence vary from 10-50%.  The Cochrane Collaboration published systematic  of topical treatments for reducing the effects of dry mouth in 2011(Furness et al). Recently the American Dental Association’s Evidence-based Dentistry Center have published a critical summary of this review [read the full story…]

Use of sugar free gum may have potential benefits for oral health of older people

shutterstock_88561078

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of sugar-free chewing gum on the oral health and quality of life of dentate older people living in the community and attending for routine dental care. What did they do Participants aged 60 years and over with a minimum of 6 natural teeth living independently [read the full story…]

No strong evidence that any topical treatment is effective for relieving the sensation of dry mouth

Logo of The Cochrane Collaboration

The prevalence of persistent dry mouth varies but a conservative estimates is that about 20% in the general population, with increased prevalence in women (up to 30%) and in the elderly (up to 50%). The aim of this Cochrane review was to determine which topical treatments for dry mouth are effective in reducing this symptom. [read the full story…]