SMi Source Lesson Xerostomia

  • SMi Source lesson Xerostomia has the following microlearning topics

    • 1. Introduction Mouth Disorders: What is Xerostomia?

    2. Saliva

    3. Problems Associated with Xerostomia

    4. Summary: Control of Xerostomia

    5. Xerostomia: Self Check Questions

  • Lesson Xerostomia teaches these concepts

    • Xerostomia Disease State, Introduction Mouth Disorders: What is Xerostomia?, What is Xerostomia?

    Xerostomia Disease State, Introduction Mouth Disorders: What is Xerostomia?, Xerostomia and Hyposalivation

    Xerostomia Disease State, Introduction Mouth Disorders: What is Xerostomia?, Saliva Flow Rate

  • Lesson Xerostomia addresses these key points

    • What is Xerostomia?

    • Dry mouth that results from a perceived lack of saliva

    Prevalence:

    • 25% general population
    • 40% elderly (>65 years old)

    Xerostomia and Hyposalivation

    Xerostomia

    • Subjective sensation of dry mouth

    Hyposalivation

    • Objective finding of reduced salivary flow rate

    Hyposalivation does not equal Xerostomia

    Problems:

    • Sticky, dry sensation in the mouth
    • Mucus accumulation
    • Mouth soreness & burning
    • Hoarseness
    • Increase in cavities
    • Gingivitis
    • Inflammation of the lips (cheilitis)
    • Cracking of the tongue
    • Infection of salivary ducts
    • Yeast infections
    • Difficulty in chewing, swallowing, and speaking
    • Taste disturbances
    • Sleep interruptions due to thirst
    • Problems wearing dentures
    • Complications with dental restorations

    Saliva Flow Rate

    • Dry mouth typically associated with an inadequate functioning of the salivary glands