Dentistry

Abstract

A Prospective Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Supersaturated Calcium Phosphate Oral Rinse in Patients with Xerostomia

Rajiv Saini

Background and Objective: Xerostomia exhibits symptoms of variable severity that are commonly attributed to medication use, chronic disease and medical treatment, such as radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Chronic xerostomia significantly increases the risk of experiencing dental caries, periodontal disease, and other oral diseases that may negatively affect the quality of life. This study was aimed to evaluate the beneficial effects of a Supersaturated Calcium Phosphate Rinse (SSCPR) in patients diagnosed with xerostomia.
Material and Methods: 38 subjects with xerostomia and high Streptococcus mutans levels were divided blindly under the control and test group. The control group received standard customary treatment while subjects under the test group were further advised to rinse with SSCPR 4 times per day for 3 months. Clinical, microbiological, and biochemical oral health parameters were evaluated after 3 months. The results were subjected to statistical analysis.
Results: Subjects under the test group i.e., using SSCPR had a 19% reduction in gingival inflammation, a 16% reduction in plaque level and a 29% improvement in oral hygiene as compared to the control group. There was a 39% improvement in salivary flow and a more neutral pH in the oral cavity compared to the control group. The S. mutans load in the test group was markedly less than as compared to the control group. All outcomes demonstrated a statistically significant difference (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Standard preventive and customary treatment when supplemented with SSCPR or SalivaMAX gave a statistically significant improvement in oral health for all outcomes measured (inflammation, plaque, oral hygiene, salivary flow, oral pH, and S. mutans) when used regularly for a 3 month time period. SSCRP shows promise as a daily oral rinse and should be further evaluated for additional health benefits