|
Dry
mouth is typically associated with some degree of salivary gland
dysfunction, as saliva and its constituents are necessary for
oral comfort and support of oral functions. However, it is recognized
that the severity of dry mouth complaints is poorly correlated
with the extent of salivary gland dysfunction.
Even modest
decreases in salivary function may trigger profound complaints
of dry mouth and oral discomfort in some persons, while other
individuals tolerate marked (and almost complete) lack of salivation
with few symptoms. The reasons for this lack of correlation are
unclear and reflect the paucity of knowledge about the elements
necessary for oral comfort. This complicates diagnosis, as well
as clinical trials.
Although subjective
dryness complaints do not correlate well with measurable salivary
gland dysfunction, some symptoms have been found to have predictive
value. Patients should be questioned in greater detail about their
dryness. In general, questions which focus on oral activities
dependent on salivation, such as chewing and swallowing, are most
likely to identify patients with salivary hypofunction. This helps
to define the group requiring further evaluation, including measurement
of salivary output.
|