![]() ![]() It should also be noted that most of these studies were concentrated in one part of the world Scandinavia and most of the study population were aged 50 years and over. 8 This wide range explains the need for more clarity in this area. A review of the literature regarding the prevalence of xerostomia among Scandinavians in 2006 reported variations from 0.9% to 64.8%. 7 A systematic review was conducted, which explains the data and directs us to explore the causes among any given population in a different environment. To find out the exact cause of xerostomia and its prevalence in the general population, and in the specific population such as smokers has been tested with mixed results. However, there are still some unanswered questions regarding the occurrence of this condition. Over the last decade, the research on xerostomia and its effects on the oral health of patients has substantially increased. Chemotherapy or normal aging as a causal factor of xerostomia is still under study, but other possible contributing factors for xerostomia include uncontrolled diabetes, chronic graft-versus-host disease, Sjogren’s syndrome, vasculitis, dehydration, malnutrition, psychogenic conditions, and immune deficiencies. The etiology of xerostomia varies from the use of medications to exposure to head and neck radiations therapy. ![]() This total alteration in the oral cavity function thus shows the impact of xerostomia on the health-related quality of life in patients. 4 They also feel an increased need to drink water when swallowing. This is because the denture-wearers with xerostomia frequently experience tissue friability due to lack of lubrication and often require frequent sips of water. Geriatric patients and denture wearers have difficulties wearing them. Patients with salivary gland hypo-function suffer from dry mouth, halitosis, oral burning sensation, increased aversion and difficulty in swallowing dry foods, less tolerance to spices, acidic, and crunchy food. However, decreased salivation or xerostomia is considered to be of greater concern for the oral cavity. 1 Any alternation in the saliva thus changes the functionality of the oral cavity. Moreover, its impact on demineralization of teeth, phonation, taste sensation, buffering action and clearance, and antibacterial activity has been well documented. Its role in the mastication and digestion process including lubrication and protection of oral mucosa is well known. Saliva plays an important role in the defense mechanism of the oral cavity. Dental practitioners need to be alert to this condition. An association between systemic disease and medication history was also noted. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of xerostomia among the Saudi population, with a higher prevalence in the older age group and women. Only 12.5% of participants who had xerostomia were smokers and 44.2% of participants who had xerostomia were using medications. There was a statistically significant association between xerostomia and associated diseases such as gastrointestinal disorders, endocrine disorder, blood diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and allergies (p<0.001). For gender, xerostomia was significantly higher among women than men (p<0.05). The prevalence of xerostomia was found to be increasing with age. Results: The prevalence of xerostomia was 42.3%. ![]() All the results were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS. The presence of xerostomia and the risk factors such as age, sex, history of smoking, history of systemic disease, and medication history are noted. Demographic data with systemic and dental- related history was collected. Methods: In this cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey, 30-70 years old were included. There is still a lack of complete information regarding this condition among the Saudi population. Thus, exploring the associated risk factors and conditions needs special attention. Background: Xerostomia is a condition that has been shown to have a negative impact on the quality of life. ![]()
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