Antimicrobial Artificial Saliva for Elderly Diabetics: A New Approach to Improve Their Quality of Life

Diabetes mellitus is a global health challenge with systemic and oral complications that significantly reduce quality of life. Among these, xerostomia is highly prevalent and aggravates risks such as caries, periodontal disease, fungal infections, and nutritional difficulties. Current treatments focus mainly on symptom relief and do not address the broader need for antimicrobial protection and regenerative support. To respond to this gap, our team has developed an innovative sugar-free artificial saliva substitute functionalized with antimicrobial peptides. This dual-action formulation combines antimicrobial properties to target key oral pathogens with regenerative potential to support periodontal tissue healing. In vitro studies and small clinical trial testing confirmed its safety, biocompatibility, and functional benefits, leading to the development of multiple prototype formulations optimized for viscosity, stability, and user comfort.

Building on these advances, a clinical pilot study was conducted in diabetic patients with xerostomia to compare the artificial saliva spray with a placebo under cross-over conditions. The trial explored patient satisfaction, oral comfort, salivary flow, and periodontal outcomes. Early findings indicate that the experimental spray is well accepted by patients and enhances both oral comfort and periodontal health. In this sense, this innovation demonstrates a significant step forward in oral health care for diabetic patients, advancing from laboratory design and validation to clinical pilot testing. The project currently stands at TRL 6, with evidence of functionality in relevant clinical environments. By integrating antimicrobial and regenerative mechanisms into a single oral formulation, this solution opens a new pathway for improving oral health and overall quality of life in a vulnerable population.