Efficacy of Novel Edible Gel-based Artificial Saliva in Thai Geriatric Populations With Systemic Diseases

Efficacy of Novel Edible Gel-based Artificial Saliva in Thai Geriatric Populations With Systemic Diseases

Elderly people usually have systemic diseases and take medications that can cause dry mouth. The purpose of this study is to determine whether continuous use of edible, gel-based artificial saliva in geriatric population with dry mouth problems will reduce signs and symptoms of dry mouth and improve quality of patients' saliva.

A pre-post test trial was conducted in 120 elders with xerostomia. All subjects received a total of 50 ml (10ml x 5 times) OMJ per day. Subjective and objective dry mouth scores, salivary pH, buffering capacity and satisfaction were monitored at 2 weeks and 1 month use, compared to baseline. The data were analyzed by Repeated Measure ANOVA.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have systemic diseases such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus and take medications that can cause dry mouth
• Report symptoms of dry mouth

Exclusion Criteria:

• Subjects with uncontrolled systemic diseases
• Subjects who aspirate upon eating
• Subjects who smoke
• Subjects who are allergic to component of the intervention