This technology features a functional gum and its manufacturing method, consisting of an artificial saliva reservoir within the gum base and protrusions extending from it. The protrusions are filled with gel-state artificial saliva, while the reservoir contains liquid-state artificial saliva. It also includes a design where one side of the protrusion is flush with the gum surface and covered by a saliva-soluble auxiliary film.
Xerostomia (dry mouth) caused by salivary gland dysfunction or aging impairs eating and speech, significantly reducing quality of life. Conventional artificial saliva is swallowed quickly, leading to short-lived effects and high consumption. Standard gums that stimulate saliva production can cause burning sensations in patients with severe dry mouth, limiting their effectiveness.
This technology is designed so that the protrusions are located near the gum surface, allowing artificial saliva to release immediately upon the first bite. Once the mouth is moistened, the patient can comfortably chew the entire gum, further stimulating natural saliva production through mastication. The protrusion locations can be marked on the surface, multiple protrusions can be used, and natural extracts can be added to the gum base. Applicable to oral care products for the elderly and patients with salivary gland dysfunction, pharmacy-sold moisturizing gums, and portable oral care for professionals who speak for long periods, this product solves both the short duration of artificial saliva and the burning sensation of standard gums.
This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Education's research on oral microbiome changes due to salivary gland dysfunction in Sjögren's syndrome.
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