Rationale For Use Of Biotene Mouth Care Products Rather than Vaseline
Biotene Mouthwash and Oralbalance Gel are presently recommended for individuals with dry oral tissues. They can be ordered online at www.biotenekits.com or call 314-429-1000, ext. 22.
Petroleum based products such as Vaseline should be avoided because they are anhydrous, meaning they contain no water. Anhydrous products can seal in potentially harmful bacteria causing infection. Aspiration of petroleum products or harmful bacteria is also a risk resulting in the possibility of an individual developing exogenous lipoid pneumonia. Vaseline and other petroleum based products are hygroscopic as well, meaning they actually absorb or draw water out of the tissues leaving them drier than prior to application. These products are known to be contraindicating to use with oxygen as they can break down plastic eliciting sparks from the oxygen, putting a person at risk for burns.
Biotene Mouthwash and Oralbalance Gel replenish key enzymes and protein in individuals with dry mouth. Saliva function is key to antimicrobial function, cell growth, pH balance and enamel re-mineralization. When saliva is lacking individuals are at risk of oral infection, tooth decay, discomfort related to burning oral tissues and difficulty speaking, chewing and swallowing.
The two key enzymes found in saliva are lysozyme and lactoperoxidase. Lactoperoxidase is probably the most important antimicrobial as it is bacteriostatic therefore inhibiting bacteria and assists in keeping oral flora in balance.
Saliva also contains a protein named lactoferin. Lactoferin works to deprive bacteria of the iron it requires for growth and also keep the oral flora in balance.
Biotene Mouthwash and Oralbalance Gel contains these enzymes and protein and if used consistently act as an insurance policy against overgrowth of harmful bacteria while maintaining the balance of healthy oral flora.
Both of these products are water-soluble and therefore if aspirated the lungs can break down the substance and flush it away. This eliminates the possibility of exogenous lipoid pneumonia that exists with the use of Vaseline. According to Pharmacy Practice Journal, Vol. 14, No. 4 of April 1998, a person may swallow up to 15 ml of Biotene QID to relieve dryness and mucous in throat. According to research Oralbalance Gel is also ingestible and can serve the same purpose in coating the throat and providing relief.
Oralbalance Gel is thixotropic, meaning it is a gel that can be fluid-like as well. The result is ease in spreading the gel onto the palate, tongue, gums and lips and yet its' "stickiness" ensures the gel will adhere to the tissues and impart the enzymes and protein to provide protection for the mouth.