Evaluation of submandibular salivary flow rate in different age groups.

The production of unstimulated and citrate-stimulated submandibular saliva was examined in 90 male and female adults, aged 26-93 years. None was taking prescription medications for treatment of systemic disease. There was no diminution in submandibular gland fluid output, at rest or during stimulation, with increasing age. Similar findings, previously reported for the parotid glands, were also confirmed. These results demonstrate that major gland fluid secretion capacity is maintained in healthy older individuals.