Randomized-controlled trial: effect of a reservoir biteguard on quality of life in xerostomia.
BACKGROUND
To assess the effect of a reservoir biteguard for artificial saliva on the oral health-related quality of life of patients with xerostomia.


METHODS
Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial among 86 adults with xerostomia. Study group received the trial biteguard. Control group received a conventional biteguard. Outcomes were number of impacts and total scores as recorded by oral impacts on daily performances (OIDP).


RESULTS
At 1-month follow up 84 people remained in the trial. The median number of impacts in the study and control groups was 3 and 4 respectively. The median total score was 6 and 12 respectively. In ANCOVA receipt of the reservoir biteguard reduced the number of impacts recorded by OIDP but there was no difference in the total score.


CONCLUSIONS
Reservoir biteguards improved the quality of life of people with xerostomia by reducing the number of impacts on daily life.
Robinson
Peter G
PG
Division of Dental Public Health and Oral Health Services Research, GKT Dental Institute, King's College, London, UK. peter.g.robinson@sheffield.ac.uk
Pankhurst
Caroline L
CL
Garrett
Emma J
EJ
D000328:Adult; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004435:Eating / Q000502:physiology; D004644:Emotions; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007845:Laughter / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009064:Mouth Protectors; D010919:Placebos; D011788:Quality of Life; D012464:Saliva, Artificial / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012890:Sleep / Q000502:physiology; D012904:Smiling / Q000502:physiology; D012919:Social Behavior; D013060:Speech / Q000502:physiology; D014099:Toothbrushing; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D010919:Placebos; D012464:Saliva, Artificial