Gustatory and olfactory considerations: examination and treatment in general practice

Article Abstract:

Disorders of taste and smell can be indicators of oral or facial disease or m ay indicate a more serious problem. Frequently, the dentist is the first person to hear from patients who notice changes in their ability to taste or smell. A sudden onset of smell or taste dysfunction may indicate a serious underlying cause, such as a brain tumor or central nervous system disease. Therefore, dentists should be familiar with basic methods for diagnosing smell and taste disorders. Examinations for both types of disorders are similar and include taking an extensive medical history. Examinations for taste disorders should include questions about smell disorders also, since some taste disorders have causes linked to olfactory disorders. Treatment options are limited for most smell and taste disorders. Some loss of smell is common as people age, but the possibility of serious underlying causes should be ruled out.

Smell disorders, Olfaction disorders, Taste disorders

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Are gingival and periodontal conditions related to salivary function?

Article Abstract:

Gum and periodontal disease do not appear to be related to the rate of salivary flow. Researchers assessed periodontal health and measured the rate of salivary flow in 298 adults between the ages of 19 and 96. In people aged 60 to 79, lower salivary gland flow rates were associated with increased dental plaque, greater gum bleeding, deeper grooves between the gums and teeth, and greater periodontal ligament attachment loss. In contrast, increased salivary flow was associated with greater gum bleeding among people aged 19 to 39. There were no significant relationships between periodontal or gum disease and salivary flow in people aged 80 to 96. The relationship between salivary flow rate, age, and periodontal disease was inconsistent across gender groups. People with the greatest and least amounts of gum and periodontal disease generally had similar salivary flow rates.

Risk factors, Salivary glands, Saliva, Periodontal disease, Periodontal diseases, Gingivitis

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Hyposalivation, xerostomia and the complete denture: a systematic review

Article Abstract:

A systematic review of clinical investigations on hyposalivation was conducted to determine the treatment effects of the condition on denture retention. A total of six electronic databases were searched. Findings indicate that conclusions cannot be made regarding the treatment effects of hyposalivation on denture retention. Prospective clinical trials are needed to develop a framework for evidence-based treatment.

United States, Usage, Dentures, Xerostomia, Clinical report

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