Salivary Gland Function in Rats. II. Effect of Thyroid Function on Salivary Flow and Viscosity.

Abstract
Propylthiouracil and radiothyroidectomy reduced salivary flow and increased salivary viscosity. This was reversed and function restored by administration of thyroxine. Testosterone partially restored salivary flow. These data provide one explanation for the mechanism of alteration in dental caries incidence in the rat following disturbance in thyroid function.