ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: We investigated the prevalence, associations and impact of xerostomia in a nationally representative sample of dentate adult community-dwelling New Zealanders aged 18 years and over. METHODS: The data were collected from a representative sample of 2209 adults, as part of the 2009 New Zealand Oral Health Survey (NZOHS). Data were collected using face-to-face interviews, dental examinations and the short-form Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). Data analysis used appropriate weighting for all procedures to account for the complex survey design. RESULTS: The overall prevalence estimate for xerostomia was 13.1% (95% CI 11.7, 14.7), and it was more common among females. Those in the 75+ and 25-34 age groups were more likely (odds ratios of 6.5 and 4.0, respectively) to have xerostomia. After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and clinical oral disease, the mean OHIP-14 score among xerostomics was 50% higher than among those who did not have the condition. CONCLUSIONS: These data indicate that xerostomia is a common condition which can affect quality of life among people of all ages.
Subject(s)
Xerostomia/epidemiology , Adolescent , Adult , Age Factors , Aged , Cross-Sectional Studies , Dental Care/statistics & numerical data , Dental Caries/epidemiology , Dental Health Surveys , Ethnicity/statistics & numerical data , Female , Humans , Independent Living/statistics & numerical data , Male , Middle Aged , New Zealand/epidemiology , New Zealand/ethnology , Oral Health/statistics & numerical data , Periodontal Attachment Loss/epidemiology , Prevalence , Quality of Life , Sex Factors , Tooth Loss/epidemiology , Vulnerable Populations/statistics & numerical data , Young AdultABSTRACT
An inherent and yet profound aspect of our well-being is dependent on a humble, unassuming fluid called saliva. This unpretentious secretion is indispensable, contributing to quality of life and the simple joy of living; its absence has been described as an aggravating constant misery. Therefore, understanding how saliva contributes to good oral health and general well-being is essential to assisting oral health professionals in their care for patients. A comprehensive literature search of publications relating to saliva was undertaken in order to assemble an overview of the current knowledge of this multifaceted, multipurpose bodily fluid. This paper revises the anatomical, histological and physiological aspects of saliva production and its functions. Dry mouth and its associated risk factors are described, together with consideration of its clinical significance.
