Comparative evaluation of unstimulated whole salivary flow rate and oral symptoms in healthy premenopausal and postmenopausal women - An observational study

Abstract

Introduction: Menopausal women undergo many physiological changes, most of which are due to decreased estrogen production. Little is understood about the relationship between menopause and oral health. Aim and Objectives: To evaluate the association of menopausal status on subjective reports of oral discomfort and on the objective measurement of unstimulated whole salivary flow rate in healthy women. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 women, including 100 postmenopausal and 100 premenopausal women, were divided into two groups based upon their menstrual status. Group I consisted of 100 postmenopausal women in the age group of 44–76 years. Group II consisted of 100 premenopausal women in the age group of 31--45 years. Settings and Design: A standardized visual analog scale questionnaire was administered to obtain subjective sensation of oral discomfort. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected for 5 min by spitting method and the flow rate of saliva was measured per minute. Statistical analysis used: Chi-square, Student's t test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were applied. Results: The prevalence and intensity of the subjective symptoms of oral discomfort was significantly higher in postmenopausal women as compared to the premenopausal women (P < 0.001). The unstimulated whole salivary flow rates in pre- and postmenopausal women were 0.4 ± 0.13 and 0.2 ± 0.11 ml/min, respectively (P < 0.001). A significant association between symptoms of oral discomfort [burning sensation (P = 0.001), taste disorders (P < 0.001), dry mouth (P < 0.001)], and unstimulated salivary flow rate was seen in postmenopausal women. Conclusion: The results from this cross-sectional study of healthy females not being treated for any systemic disease, and not taking medications for any medical disorders indicated that the objective measurements of unstimulated whole salivary flow rate are influenced by menopause. In addition, subjective symptoms of oral discomfort are also associated with menopause.