ORAL HYGIENE AND SUPPORTIVE GUIDELINES: CARE PROTOCOLS FOR PATIENTS WITH POLYPHARMACY AND XEROSTOMIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/levv17n59-005Keywords:
Xerostomia, Polypharmacy, Oral Hygiene, Geriatric Care, Oral Health of the ElderlyAbstract
Xerostomia induced by polypharmacy is a silent epidemic in the context of global population aging, with an alarming prevalence in long-term care facilities for the elderly. This narrative review synthesizes recent scientific evidence (2021-2025) on oral hygiene protocols and support strategies for polypharmacy-induced xerostomia patients. Saliva plays critical roles in oral homeostasis, and its reduction due to medication predisposes to rapidly progressing root caries, oral candidiasis, malnutrition, and aspiration pneumonia. This study proposes a structured multidisciplinary intervention protocol integrating dentists, physicians, and pharmacists, with special emphasis on continuing education for caregivers. The importance of the "Mirror Sliding Test" as a low-cost screening tool, the systematic review of pharmacotherapy ("deprescribing"), and the implementation of specific hygiene protocols including 5000 ppm fluoride and saliva substitutes are highlighted. The proposed model aims to break the vicious cycle between polypharmacy, xerostomia, and systemic complications, contributing to comprehensive care for frail elderly individuals.
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References
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MICHAIL, A. et al. Anticholinergic burden of medications is associated with dry mouth and reflected in minor labial gland secretion. Archives of Oral Biology, v. 156, p. 105824, 2023.
MICHALAK, P. et al. Oral and Mucosal Complaints among Institutionalized Care Seniors in Malopolska Voivodeship-The Utility of the Mirror Sliding Test in an Assessment of Dry Mouth. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, v. 19, n. 21, p. 13776, 2022.
POTOCKA, W. et al. Association between dry mouth and dry eyes: a systematic literature review of clinical evidence. Rheumatology International, v. 45, p. 209-225, 2025.
TADA, S. et al. Oral-Systemic Health Burden and Dry mouth as an Intermediary Factor: A Cross-Sectional Study in Singapore Nursing Homes. International Dental Journal, v. 75, p. 103934, 2025.
THOMSON, W. M. et al. The Challenge of Medication-Induced Dry Mouth in Residential Aged Care. Pharmacy, v. 9, n. 4, p. 162, 2021.
VYAS, B. et al. Raman hyperspectroscopy of saliva and machine learning for Sjögren's disease diagnostics. Scientific Reports, v. 14, p. 11135, 2024.
