title: [Xerostomia in the elderly: causes, consequences and treatment possibilities of dry mouth].
abstract: Xerostomia is in most cases caused by a decrease or discontinuity of salivation (hyposalivation). A physiological decrease in salivary gland function is not the main cause of hyposalivation. According to recent publications the general state of health plays a major role. Probably the most common cause is the use of medication with a salivary secretion inhibitory side effect. Proper patient assessment is essential to reveal the cause and to provide optimal treatment.
authors.affiliation: Katholieke Universiteit Nijmegen.
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Kaandorp
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: de Baat
authors.forename: L F
authors.initials: LF
authors.lastname: Michels
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D012472:Salivation; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy
vernacular_title: Xerostomie bij ouderen: oorzaken, gevolgen en behandelingsmogelijkheden van monddroogheid.