The Efficacy of Mucin‐Containing Artificial Saliva in Alleviating Symptoms of Xerostomia

Abstract

The efficacy of a mucin‐coniaining saliva substitute was assessed in terms of changes in oral functioning and the psychic and social implications of these changes. Thirty‐nine patients with xerostomia filled out a questionnaire before application of the artificial saliva and after six weeks of usage. The artificial saliva was applied with a spray. From this study it was concluded that: (1) the application of the mucin‐containing saliva substitute reduced the sensation of a dry mouth and improved oral functions such as chewing, swallowing and speech (also less nocturnal oral discomfort was observed); (2) the subjects felt better about oral functioning using the saliva substitute; (3) patients using the mucin‐containing saliva substitute felt less restricted in their social activities (e.g. communication).