A variety of conditions can result in reduced flow of saliva. This can result in symptoms of xerostomia and predispose to bacterial infection of the salivary glands. A variety of interventions often can provide adequate saliva flow.
Cause for Decreased Saliva Flow
Intervention
dehydration
rehydration
proximal (to the oral cavity) parotid duct obstruction
duct dilatation with probe
drug related reduced secretion (such as anticholinergic agent_
discontinuation of offending drug
Additional interventions to increase saliva flow:
(1) sucking slowly on sour, non-sugar hard candies
(2) massaging the salivary gland to "milk" saliva
(3) use of a cholinergic agent as a sialagogue (pilocarpine, cevimeline)
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