SALIVARY HYPOFUNCTION, XEROSTOMIA AND ITS PROSTHODONTIC MANAGEMENT

Saliva is a multipurpose fluid secreted by three major pairs of salivary glands. Saliva constantly bathes all the oral hard and soft tissues and helps to maintainthe oral homeostasis. Saliva has manifold functions in protecting the integrity of the oral tissues. It is of crucial importance for both dentulousas well as edentulous patients.Dysfunction in the salivary flow produces negative effect on the oral environment, can lead to severe consequences in the overall patient?s health and in their quality of life.Saliva acts as a mainstay for the success of the removable prosthodontic therapy. Thus, a knowledge regarding saliva is essential for providing efficient prosthodontic treatment and after care. This article aims to provide a brief overview of salivary hypofunction, xerostomia and its prosthodontic implications.