Abstract
Summary
1) We determined the effects of thyroid gland dysfunction on salivary flow and viscosity in the rat. Results indicate that propylthiouracil and radiothyroidectomy reduced salivary flow and increased salivary viscosity. This can be reversed and function restored by administration of thyroxine. Testosterone partially restores salivary flow. 2) These data provide one explanation for the mechanism of alteration in dental caries incidence in the rat following disturbance in thyroid function, although the relationship is probably far more complex than this.
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