Effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation induced parotid stimulation on salivary flow

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the duration of stimulation over the parotid salivary flow following the use of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) in different age groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out in three different age groups. Under group A individuals from 21 to 35 years of age, group B 36-50 years and group C above 51 years were considered. In each group 30 subjects were taken of whom 15 were males and 15 were females. The placement of pads was approximated bilaterally over the parotid glands. The working parameters of TENS unit were fixed at 50 Hz and the unit was in normal mode. RESULTS: Subjects belonging to group B were showing statistically significant increases in the duration of stimulated parotid salivary flow following the use of TENS. CONCLUSION: TENS can be considered as a non-pharmacological alternative to improve salivation for longer period in xerostomia patients.