Impact of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease on Salivary Dynamics: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic gastric condition that can alter the salivary dynamics. Its impact on salivary amylase levels remains understudied.

AIMS: This study aimed to analyze and compare salivary pH, salivary flow rate, and amylase levels in patients with untreated GERD, GERD patients under treatment, and healthy controls.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

This study included 30 newly diagnosed cases of GERD patients (Group II), 30 GERD patients receiving therapy (Group III), and 30 healthy controls (Group I). Saliva was obtained from the individuals, and salivary pH, flow rate, and salivary amylase levels were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, with post-hoc Tukey HSD tests for pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS

Salivary pH was significantly lower in Group II patients than in Group III or Group I (p < 0.001). The lowest salivary flow rate was observed in Group II, with significant improvement noted in Group III and the highest values found in Group I (p < 0.001). Mean salivary amylase activity also differed significantly, being lowest in Group II (mean: 34.84 U/L).

CONCLUSION

The observed changes in salivary pH, flow rate, and amylase activity, most prominent in untreated GERD patients, highlight the potential impact of GERD on oral health and support the importance of timely intervention to mitigate oral complications.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.