oral environment Flashcards
what is the volume or saliva in mouth
1.1ml (range = 0.5 - 2.1ml)
what area is mucosa covered by a film of saliva
5-100 micro m thick
where is salivary film flow the highest
lower, lingual region
where is salivary film flow lowest
labial buccal regions
what can affect the incidence of caries in different regions of the mouth
the salivary film flow rate
where are regions in the mouth that have a higher case of caries?
where saliva flow is lowest - labial, buccal regions
what is clearance
the rate at which substances are removed from the mouth
what is the function of clearance
removal or harmful materials (e.g. sucrose)
retention of beneficial materials (F-, chlorhexidine)
how to stimulate salivary flow
chewing gum
what is Xerostomia
dry mouth
causes of decreased salivary flow
side effect of many drugs
radiotherapy (H&N tumours)
diseases
why does radiotherapy decrease salivary flow
damages glands and epithelia
Name a condition that affects salivary glands + other tissues
Sjorgrens syndrome
what are the consequences of decreased salivary flow
increased dental caries,
increases oral disease (stomatitis, fissured lips)
Dysaesthesia (‘burning’ mouth)
impaired oral function (chewing, swallowing, speaking)
diminished taste perception
how to manage Xerostamia (dry mouth)
depends on the cause
if there is functioning gland tissue present, stimulate salivary flow by chewing or by drugs (sialogogues)
If not function tissue gland,
mucin-based; cellulose based
water alone is not very effective
