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Dental Hygienist

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What is Xerostomia and how dental hygienists investigate this complaint?
Xerostomia (also termed as a dry mouth syndrome) is dryness in the mouth which is associated with a change in the composition of saliva or reduced salivary flow called hyposalivation. Saliva, with its proteins and enzymes is essential for keeping the mouth lubricated and healthy. Xerostomia is a very common condition and affects more than 1 out of every 4 adults. Xerostomia, itself is not a disease, but can be an indication of other diseases in the body (Connie, Debra, & Barbara, 2013).
Xerostomia can lead to ongoing bad breath, cavities, mouth infections and a number of other emotional, physical and social issues. Patients suffering from Xerostomia may complain of some …show more content…
In the most severe case, this can result in a total loss of salivary output. Xerostomia is a common side effect of radiation therapy. The most radiosensitive salivary gland is parotid gland followed by submandibular, sublingual and minor salivary gland. A radiation dose as low as 20 Gy can cause permanent cessation of salivary flow if given as a single dose. At doses above 52 Gy, salivary dysfunction is severe. Treatment of oral carcinoma conventionally involves the administration of a dose of 60 Gy to 70 Gy, and this can lead to a rapid decrease in flow during the first week of radiation, with an eventual reduction of 95%in the region (Nishat,& …show more content…
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder. This condition can cause other symptoms like xerophthalmia (dry eyes). It is reported that, nine out of ten patients with Sjögren's syndrome are females who suffer from dry mouth and eye due to secretory hypo-function caused by this condition (Wenche et al, 2010). Primary Sjögren's syndrome is the combination of dry eyes and xerostomia.
Diagnosis and early identification of the xerostomia is very important for dental hygienists and health professionals to prevent the disturbing consequences of this complaint. The first diagnostic approach is taking a broad medical history including assessing local and systemic diseases, history of trauma, medication, diet and social history (stress, anxiety, and smoking) of the patient. There is few treatment options that can help diagnose and identify xerostomia that includes intra-oral and extra-oral examinations, subjective questions from the patient, saliva testing and/or other radiograph

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