Xerostomia (dry mouth), the subjective perception of dryness of the mouth, affects nearly 30% of the general population, and up to 70% of the elderly (>50 years) report at least one dry mouth–related symptom. Dry mouth is associated with various adverse side effects that directly affect quality of life. Several salivary substitutes/oral moisturizers are available for the palliative treatment of the symptoms associated with dry mouth. Product acceptance is largely based upon patient sensory perception and reduction of symptoms.
Objective: The focus of this investigation is to evaluate two mouthwashes formulated to provide increased lubricity and moisture to the oral mucosa.
Methods: Two different mouthwashes were evaluated in this study: Oasis™ (Tri-Hydra™ technology) and Biotene™ (enzyme mix). A total of 445 subjects were recruited and randomized into 2 groups: Oasis™ (n = 146) and Biotene™ (n = 299). Subjects were asked to swish with one of the mouthwashes and complete a detailed questionnaire recording their subjective perceptions of the rinse, demographic information, and brief history of dry mouth symptoms and treatments, and past medical history.
Results: Comparison of the two mouthwashes in alleviating dry mouth symptoms showed that the percent response for Oasis™ was better than Biotene™ for a majority of respondents. The responses included: mouth rehydration (41% better than Biotene™), protection from dryness (50% better), comfort level in speaking (72% better), killing odor-causing germs (50% better), burning/irritation in the mouth (5% - 7% better). In addition, Oasis™ was reported to better than Biotene™ in taste attributes like pleasant taste, aftertaste, and texture (61% to 82% better).
Conclusion: Oasis™ had higher acceptance ratings than Biotene™ for all dry mouth-associated symptoms, with a more lasting moisturizing effect. Oasis mouthwash was perceived to be superior to Biotene™ in providing enhanced mucosal lubrication and moisturizing.
Funding Support: Oasis Consumer HealthCare LLC