EFFICACY OF A SYNTHETIC-POLYMER SALIVA SUBSTITUTE IN REDUCING ORAL COMPLAINTS OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM IRRADIATION-INDUCED XEROSTOMIA

Objective: A saliva substitute based on polyglycerylmethacrylate, lact operoxidase, and glucose oxidase (Oral Balance) has been developed. Th e aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Oral Balance on the dryness-related oral complaints in patients suffering from irradiation -induced xerostomia. Method and materials: The efficacy bf Oral Balanc e on the dryness-related complaints of 28 patients was assessed by mea ns of self-administered questionnaires. Each patient completed an init ial questionnaire about dryness-related symptoms and then was given th e moistening gel. The patients were instructed to apply the gel as oft en as desired. After 2 weeks and 3 months, the patients were asked to complete a progress questionnaire The severity of xerostomia was measu red with a saliva absorption method. Results: All patients suffered fr om moderate-to-severe xerostomia, the severity of which did not change during the experimental period. Three patients did not complete the s tudy. In the other 25 patients, the application of Oral Balance tended to diminish the sensation of oral dryness and improve oral functionin g. Statistically significant reduction of the dryness-related complain ts was observed only in the patients suffering from severe xerostomia. . Conclusion: Use of Oral Balance is of potential benefit in patients suffering from severe xerostomia.