Salivary Diagnostics surveys one of the most exciting areas of research in oral biology. Regarded as the mirror of the body, saliva has immense potential to yield real clinical improvements in our ability to diagnose, and hence treat, oral and systemic conditions. The composition of saliva and other oral fluids reflects the tissue fluid levels of therapeutic, hormonal, and immunological molecules, as well as the presence of markers for systemic and oral disease.

Saliva as a unique sample for health assessment is gaining attention among researchers of different fields in the last 20 years; being reflected in an impressive increase in the number of papers published studying saliva from different biological aspects in human and veterinary species. Once deemed merely a digestive juice is now considered a biological fluid capable of communicating information about physiopathological processes occurring in organisms, since saliva has been shown to contain molecular and bacterial compounds that can change in response to local and systemic pathologies. Furthermore, the interest of saliva as a diagnostic, prognostic and monitoring biofluid is forced by its non-invasive nature being of easy and inexpensive sampling, involving only minimal discomfort and allowing the collection of multiple/repeated specimens at anytime, anywhere and without need for specialized staff. In this contributed volume, the authors bring together, summarize and reflect the generated knowledge about saliva as a source of biomarkers for health and welfare evaluation in humans and animal models. This volume also highlights the importance of confounding factors, such as sampling methods, flow, total protein content, contamination, or storage. This book will serve as a manual for graduates, practitioners and researchers by providing general ideas about the possibilities and utilities of saliva in clinical practice or investigation, and indicating the main cautions each should have in mind before saliva usage.

This is the first book for some years that provides a comprehensive overview of food oral processing including the biomechanics of swallowing, the biophysics of mouthfeel and texture as well as the biochemistry of flavours and how food microstructures can be manipulated.

Xerostomia, more commonly called dry mouth, affects an estimated 20 percent of adults worldwide and can severely diminish one’s quality of life. Dry Mouth, the Malevolent Symptom: A Clinical Guide relies on evidence-based research to provide an introductory primer on oral dryness and the modalities available to treat it. The book describes the varied etiology of the disease, but emphasizes clinical protocols and step-by-step procedures for diagnosis and treatment planning. Dry Mouth is a user-friendly manual guiding clinicians through identifying and managing this common condition. Causes including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, systemic diseases, polypharmacy, and the natural progression of aging are discussed in conjunction with the clinical symptoms and signs associated with each one. Multiple avenues for treatment are presented, highlighting salivary stimulation and supplementation techniques, pharmacologic aids, and critically required oral therapy. Although intended primarily for the professionals that treat those affected by xerostomia, Dry Mouth may also be of interest to sufferers of this condition.

The Basic Guide to Oral Health Education and Promotion is the step by step course companion for dental nurses studying for the Certificate in Oral Health Education. In addition it is an invaluable resource for other members of the dental team and health professionals involved in educating and promoting oral health to patients and the wider general public. Each chapter looks at a different aspect of oral health education and promotion in line with the NEBDN syllabus, yet is written in logical sequence for the benefit of those not studying the exam and those in professions other than dental nursing. Topics covered include dental structures, anatomy and physiology, oral diseases and prevention, the principles of education, oral health and society, promoting oral health in the 21st century, patient communication, project planning and workplace assignments.

This book explores in depth the relationships between nutrition and oral health. Oral health is an integral part of general health across the life course, and this book examines nutritional and oral health considerations from childhood through to old age, with particular attention focused on the consequences of demographic changes. Current knowledge on the consequences of poor diet for the development and integrity of the oral cavity, tooth loss, and the progression of oral diseases is thoroughly reviewed. Likewise, the importance of maintenance of a disease-free and functional dentition for nutritional well-being at all stages of life is explained. Evidence regarding the impact of oral rehabilitation on nutritional status is evaluated, and strategies for changing dietary behaviour in order to promote oral health are described. Nutrition and Oral Health will be an ideal source of information for all who are seeking a clearly written update on the subject.

This open access book examines health trajectories and health transitions at different stages of the life course, including childhood, adulthood and later life. It provides findings that assess the role of biological and social transitions on health status over time. The essays examine a wide range of health issues, including the consequences of military service on body mass index, childhood obesity and cardiovascular health, socio-economic inequalities in preventive health care use, depression and anxiety during the child rearing period, health trajectories and transitions in people with cystic fibrosis and oral health over the life course. The book addresses theoretical, empirical and methodological issues as well as examines different national contexts, which help to identify factors of vulnerability and potential resources that support resilience available for specific groups and/or populations. Health reflects the ability of individuals to adapt to their social environment. This book analyzes health as a dynamic experience. It examines how different aspects of individual health unfold over time as a result of aging but also in relation to changing socioeconomic conditions. It also offers readers potential insights into public policies that affect the health status of a population.