‫حيدر حسين عليوي‬

Etiology of Xerostomia
is defined as dryness of the mouth due to the lack of normal secretion of saliva. It is a common
clinical condition that could be the result of many causes such as

Medication
A variety of drugs that have a wide range of therapeutic activities have been reported to cause xerostomia in 10
percent or more of patients. Drug-induced hyposalivation also can be an extension of the drug’s intended action, as
seen with the parasympatholytic agents (such as atropine), or as an anticholinergic side effect with drugs such as
tricyclic antidepressants.

Sjögren’s syndrome
The xerostomia that is associated with primary and secondary Sjögren’s syndrome has been attributed to the
progressive lymphocytic infiltration that gradually destroys the secretory acini of the major and minor salivary
glands. Another explanation for the loss of glandular function may be related to an inhibition of nerve stimuli of the
glands. It has been suggested that the reduction in secretions first may affect the minor salivary glands, which can
initiate the symptoms of xerostomia.

Radiation therapy
Ionizing radiation can injure the major and minor salivary glands; this can lead to atrophy of the secretory
components and result in varying degrees of temporary or permanent xerostomia.

Other conditions
Diabetes , HIV infection , Tobacco smoking , Alcoholism , Mouth breathing , Dehydration
In complete denture wearers, the wetting mechanics of saliva are necessary to assist the
retention of pros-theses. A study was made in 2015 . A total of 285 questionnaires were
distributed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Out of 246 subjects, xerostomia was
found in 80 (32.5%) patients and non xerostomic were 166 (67.47%) while denture stability was
found in 177 (71.95%) and instability in 69 (28.05%) patients. Of the 80 xerostomic subjects, 63
(78.75%) had unstable dentures. Association of xerostomia with denture stability was calculated
using Chi-Square test and was found statistically significant (P <0.001). Dry mouth appears to
have a significant impact on the oral function in denture wearers.
Conclusion:
Xerostomia should be diagnosed and effectively managed before any complete denture therapy
is initiated.
Reference:
1- Jillian W. et al., “Etiology, Evaluation, and Management of Xerostomia” 2017.06.10
2- Michael D Turner “Hyposalivation and Xerostomia: Etiology, Complications, and
Medical Management” 2015.11.3