Salivary Thromboplastic Activity May Indicate Wound Healing after Tooth Extraction

Oral mucosa is susceptible to tissue injury from many causes, including infection, autoimmune disorders, surgical and accidental trauma, and gingival and periodontal inflammation; however, little is known about the events that influence wound healing in the mouth. This study investigated the changes in salivary thromboplastic activity prior to and after primary tooth extraction. Cytological smears and biochemical tests were also used in this study. Salivary pH and salivary flow rate did not significantly change after primary tooth extraction. Salivary thromboplastic activity was not significantly higher after extraction than prior to extraction (p=0.068). Epithelial cells significantly decreased and leukocyte cells significantly increased in saliva after primary tooth extraction (p<0.001). In conclusion: oral cavity may aid the process of haemostasis and perhaps wound healing in the extraction area by increasing salivary leukocyte cells and thromboplastic activity. Thromboplastic activity may be a novel indicator of wound healing completion.