Chromatography paper: A novel approach to estimate the salivary flow

Background: To evaluate a simple and safe method to estimate the salivary flow using chromatography paper. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 volunteers participated in the study. The salivary flow rate was estimated using chromatography filter paper and compared with the salivary flow rate per minute. The assay consisted of 3 spots containing starch and potassium iodide per spot on filter paper. Based on the color reaction on the chromatography filter paper the salivary flow rate was estimated. Results: Pearson’s correlation test showed highly significant negative correlation when the salivary flow rate and the number of colored dots were compared. Conclusion: This method can be used as a chair side diagnostic aid in the estimation of salivary flow.