Effects of xerostomia on fixed dental prostheses

Abstract

Xerostomia, characterized by the subjective sensation of dry mouth and the reduction of salivary flow, can significantly affect oral health, masticatory function, and the durability of fixed dental prostheses. The aim of this study was to synthesize the available scientific evidence on the influence of xerostomia in patients with fixed prostheses, using the PRISMA 2020 methodology to identify its effects on prosthetic function, treatment durability, and overall oral health. A systematic literature review was conducted in the PubMed database, selecting studies published between January 2020 and January 2025. Out of the initial 4,233 documents found, 162 studies were included after applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results show that xerostomia compromises the retention and stability of fixed prostheses, increases the risk of root caries, periodontal disease, and oral infections, and reduces the survival of dental restorations, with prosthetic crowns being more durable compared to direct restorations. Additionally, the subjective perception of dry mouth negatively impacts patients' quality of life, even in the absence of objectively measurable hyposalivation. In conclusion, xerostomia integrally affects the function, durability, and oral health in patients with fixed prostheses, highlighting the need to implement individualized management strategies and continue researching to optimize evidence-based treatment.