Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: A prevalent condition that impacts millions of people, dry mouth or xerostomia is frequently brought on by medication, systemic illnesses, aging, or radiation therapy. Because it puts the person at risk for dental caries, periodontal disease, and issues with speech and swallowing, it can seriously harm oral health. To reduce the symptoms of xerostomia and enhance oral health, oral hydration supplements in the form of electrolyte solutions and saliva substitutes have been developed. This review of the literature discusses the efficacy of oral hydration supplements in treating dry mouth, how they work, and how they affect oral health in general. Oral hydration supplements are an effective intervention in dry-mouth patients, offering symptomatic relief and potential oral health advantages. Supplements work in multiple ways: by preserving moisture, as antimicrobial agents, and by promoting remineralization. Clinical trials suggest they may be able to increase xerostomia-associated discomfort, reduce risk for caries, and improve swallowing. But there remain concerns regarding long-term efficacy, patient variability, and product stability.
Source: Journal of Healthcare Sciences
Authors: Hind Jurayed Alshammari, Layla Yousef Alshayib, Rahaf Ahmed Alghamdi
Institutions: Ministry of Health, National Guard Health Affairs
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4413028894