%0 Journal Article
%T Evaluation and management of dry mouth and its complications in rheumatology practice.
%A Khavandgar Z
%A Warner BM
%A Baer AN
%J Expert Rev Clin Immunol
%V 20
%N 1
%D 2024 Jan-Jun 12
%M 37823475
%F 5.124
%R 10.1080/1744666X.2023.2268283
%X The symptom of dry mouth has multiple potential etiologies and can be a diagnostic clue to the presence of common systemic diseases encountered in rheumatology practice. The presence of decreased saliva flow (i.e. salivary hypofunction) defines a subset of dry mouth patients in whom there may be reversible drug effects, an iatrogenic insult such as head and neck irradiation, or a disease that directly involves the salivary glands (e.g. Sjögren's disease). The assessment of salivary hypofunction includes sialometry, salivary gland imaging, salivary gland biopsy, and an assessment for relevant systemic diseases. Optimal management of dry mouth requires accurate definition of its cause, followed by general measures that serve to alleviate its symptoms and prevent its complications.
Through a literature search on xerostomia and salivary hypofunction, we provide an overview of the causes of dry mouth, highlight the potential impact of salivary hypofunction on oral and systemic health, detail routine evaluation methods and treatment strategies, and emphasize the importance of collaboration with oral health care providers.
Our Expert Opinion is provided on unmet needs in the management of dry mouth and relevant research progress in the field.