Table 1.

Methods of collection of whole saliva

Type of saliva collection	Methods	Technique
Unstimulated	Passive drainage	Collection in a graduated container
	Active drainage	Regular expectoration in a graduated container
	Suction	Pooled saliva in floor of mouth is vacuumed and collected in graduated container
	Absorption	Preweighted cotton or gauze inserted in mouth and then weighed again
MST	A calibrated paper strip is placed on the floor of the mouth and readings are measured at 1, 2, and 3 min interval
Stimulated	Mechanical	Chewing paraffin or unflavored gum and spitting in graduated container
	Gustatory	Citric acid application in lateral borders of tongue and spitting method
	Absorption	Preweighted swab chewed for a certain time and weighed

MST: Modified Schirmer test