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Researchers Regenerate a Fully Functional Salivary Gland

Dry mouth is a common dental concern for many individuals that have certain medical conditions (such as Sjogren's syndrome) or are on certain medications.  Without saliva, individuals may experience a constant sore throat, burning sensation in the mouth/throat, trouble speaking, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.  

It not only causes discomfort but may lead to more oral health problems as saliva is the mouth's main defense against tooth decay. Saliva washes away food particles and neutralizes the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.  A reduction in the production of saliva leads the mouth open more tooth decay and the chance of damaging the soft and hard tissues in the mouth.  Saliva also functions at the first step in digestion as it begins to break down starches, leading to the necessity of researchers to find suitable alternatives.

The Tokyo University of Science and Organ Technologies recently regenerated a fully functional salivary gland.  The researchers have been working towards a regenerating a functioning salivary gland for regenerative therapies, furthering the possibilities for the dental and medical fields.


Source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dry-mouth
Source:http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/10/131002102313.htm


R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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