Xerostomia Assessment — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Unstimulated whole salivary flow rate measurement
Unstimulated (resting) whole salivary flow rate is the most direct and clinically relevant test for xerostomia. The patient spits collected saliva into a graduated container over 5-15 minutes. A flow rate of <0.1 mL/min is considered hyposalivation. Stimulated flow rates (chewing paraffin wax) <0.5-0.7 mL/min are also abnormal. This quantitative measurement correlates with subjective symptoms and guides management (saliva substitutes, pilocarpine, fluoride regimen).
Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016