Salivary gland function returns to normal following radiation therapy to the head and neck. Individuals may stop daily applications of fluoride to the teeth when they perceive that the saliva has returned following radiation therapy.

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The salivary gland tissue may recover slightly following radiation therapy, but there is scientific evidence that the quantity and quality of the saliva is permanently diminished following therapeutic radiation. Clients may perceive that the saliva has returned to normal, but in actuality the client adjusts to the change in the saliva. Clients may also feel that the saliva has returned because of partial stimulation of residual functional salivary gland tissue.

Salivary Gland Function Returns to Normal Following Radiation Therapy to the Head