Relationship of salivary flow and psychological variables: A review

Pages: 949-951
Safarulla N. V. M. (Research and Development Centre, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore)
Shamsuddin, H., M.D.S. (Ex- Professor and Head, Department of Periodontics Government Dental College, Calicut)

Most of the empirical evidences regarding the association of Salivary Flow and Psychological variables show inconsistent results. Many authors reported concern about the absence of standard mean values and interdependent parameters in Sialometry. The present study conducted a thorough review using electronic data base, and scrutinized various studies of past 50 years. Most of the literature reviewed agreed that Relaxation Responses lead to increased Salivary Flow, which is less viscous and more watery. At the same time, stressful situations, anger, psychoticism and neuroticism lead to decreased Salivary Flow, which is more mucous and viscous. Moreover, the review uncovered empirical evidences showing that Salivary Analysis can be used as biomarkers in the diagnosis of many conditions like stress reactions, pregnancy, smoking and even in HIV. The present study concluded that Salivary Flow decreases in Psychological Stress and other psycho-neurotic conditions and increases in relaxed mental states.