Audio Recording

Presenter: Athena Papas, DMD, PhD Mabi L. Singh, DMD

Reduction of salivary gland function and loss of saliva occur due to medications and medical conditions (e.g. Sj?gren's syndrome, HIV, therapeutic radiation, chemotherapies, HSCT, and lifestyle). A myriad of complications (e.g. increase in cariogenic microbiota, including Candidiasis, new and secondary carious lesions, tooth surface loss, mucositis, xerostomia) occur due to loss of protective properties of saliva. Failure to identify and overcome risk factors lead to complications causing financial burden, decreased quality of life, and frustration to dentists.