A Treat to Xerotes: An Emerging Trend

Abstract

Xerostomia or dry mouth refers to a condition in which the function of salivary gland to secrete saliva is not enough to keep the mouth wet. Systemic diseases, local factors and various drugs are believed to be the causes. A sticky, dry or burning sensation in the mouth, altered taste or intolerance for spicy, salty or sour foods and cracked lips are believed to be the signs of xerostomia. So, the patients of xerostomia require distinctive care for upkeeping the oral health condition and, it is our obligation to treat such condition which involves multidisciplinary approach. Different approaches used nowadays are sugar free chewing gums, artificial saliva, sucking sugarless candies which provide symptomatic relief but recurrence is probable when treatment ends and drugs like direct acting cholinergic agonists can promote salivation but has various side effects alongside. So, to overcome such limitations,neuroelectrostimulatory devices were introduced in today's world as recent advancements in the management of xerostomia. This review aimed to describe theseneuroelectrostimulatory devices.