Xerostomia and salivary gland hypofunction (SGH) are prevalent in elderly p
opulations, causing much discomfort and even difficulties in eating. SGH al
so increases the occurrence and severity of oral diseases and makes the pat
ient susceptible to candidiasis. The principal causes of SGH and xerostomia
are systemic diseases and drugs used daily The diagnosis of SGH and xerost
omia is based on simple methods, of which measuring both unstimulated and s
timulated salivary flow rate is the most important. Treatment calls for pro
per management of underlying disease, avoidance of all unnecessary medicati
ons, and topical remedies such as artificial saliva substitutes. However, g
ood hydration is essential in the elderly with SGH and xerostomia, and wate
r is the drink of choice. In extremely difficult cases, for instance in pat
ients receiving radiotherapy for cancer of the head and neck regions, paras
ympathomimetic drugs may be administered if no contraindications exist.