Chapter 6 ABSTRACT Objectives In this study we investigated the salivary film thickness and the MUC5B levels at various intra-oral locations inhealthy volunteers, witha focus on thepalate. Besides, measurements of the palatal surface area were included to explore the possible relationships between the palatal surface area and the palatal salivary film and MUC5B levels. Materials andmethods The salivary film thickness was determined using filter strips, which were pressed to the mucosal surfaces of five different intra-oral locations; conductance was then analysed using a Periotron. After elution of the strips, the MUC5B levels at various intra-oral locations were determined using ELISA. The palatal surface area was measured using an intra-oral scanner. The surface area was subsequently calculated using software. Results The anterior tongue had the thickest salivary film and also the highest levels of MUC5B, while the anterior palate had the thinnest salivary film and lowest MUC5B levels. Therewas no association between the palatal surface areaand the salivary film thickness of the palate. Conclusion The salivary film and MUC5B levels are unequally distributed over the intra-oral regions of the soft tissues. The lack of associationbetween thepalatal surfacearea and the salivary filmthickness indicates that a larger surfacearea is not associated with a relative thinner palatal salivary film. Clinical relevance The results of current study increase our understanding of saliva distribution in the oral cavity and could be used as reference values for future studies. Keywords Salivary film thickness, Salivary secretions, MUC5B level, Palatal surface area, Sialopapers. 112
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