Abstract
This study aimed to describe the prevalence and associated factors for xerostomia and hyposalivation in a young‐elderly population. A random sample of 460 65‐yr‐old people living in Oslo, Norway, answered a questionnaire and underwent a clinical examination (237 men and 223 women; response rate 58%). Ten percent of respondents reported xerostomia. The median Summated Xerostomia Index was 6 (interquartile range [IQR]: 5–7) and the median Clinical Oral Dryness Score was 2 (IQR: 1–3). The median unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) secretion rate was 0.34 (IQR: 0.20–0.53) mL min–1 and the median stimulated whole saliva (SWS) secretion rate was 1.74 (IQR: 1.24–2.38) mL min–1. In 8% of the study participants the UWS secretion rate was ≤0.1 mL min–1 and in 4% the SWS secretion rate was ≤0.7 mL min–1. Three percent of the study participants had both xerostomia and hyposalivation with respect to UWS. Xerostomia was significantly associated with medication use, having rheumatic disease, and having received radiation therapy to the head/neck region. Hyposalivation with respect to UWS and SWS was significantly associated with medication use and type II diabetes. Even though xerostomia and hyposalivation were not prevalent conditions in this population, clinicians should be especially aware of the salivary conditions in patients taking four or more medications, patients diagnosed with type II diabetes, and those who have undergone radiation therapy to the head/neck region.
Highlights
In many societies, the proportion of elderly people is gradually increasing [1]
The data presented in this cross-sectional study were part of a larger study investigating oral health in 65-yr-old people in Oslo, Norway
The presence of symptoms of dry mouth according to the standard xerostomia question was significantly associated with the number of medications taken, rheumatic disease, and radiation therapy to the head/neck region
Summary
The proportion of elderly people is gradually increasing [1]. Many elderly people have declining general and oral health, and an increasing proportion of older people with general and oral health challenges may lead to higher individual and societal costs [2]. It is important to map the oral health status of the ‘young elderly’ in order to plan for future dental health needs and services as they age. Saliva is important in maintaining a healthy oral cavity because it lubricates the oral surfaces, rinses the mouth, and neutralizes acids, and protects against caries and erosive wear, as well as mucosal infections. Having an adequate volume of saliva is crucial for good oral health-related quality of life
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