Salivary Pacemakers and Its Role in Management of Xerostomia: A Review

Saliva is an essential oral fluid that plays a vital role in maintaining both oral and dental health. Xerostomia, commonly referred to as dry mouth, is a condition characterized by a noticeable reduction in salivary flow. It can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life by affecting nutrition, impairing denture function, compromising oral hygiene, and increasing the risk of dental caries and oral infections such as candidiasis. Managing xerostomia remains a significant clinical challenge in dental care. Effective prevention and treatment require a proactive and collaborative approach. Salivary pacemakers, through neuroelectrostimulation, activate salivary glands and optimize the use of any remaining functional glandular capacity. This review aims to emphasize the role and clinical relevance of salivary pacemakers in modern dentistry.