The aim of the present paper was to analyze the influence of sampling and storage procedures on nitrite concentration values in the saliva of healthy persons. The samples were obtained and stored under varied conditions, and processed using the Griess method. Results: when the salivary nitrite concentration was measured immediately after collection a significant dependence on the collection time was observed. A mean value of 94 µmol/L (range 3 -625) was obtained at 8:30 am. This value decreased significantly with time (p < 0.05) reaching a value of 68 at 12:30 noon. Concerning the sample storage, a significant increase in the nitrite concentration was observed after 2 hrs, either at 4˚C or at room temperature (p < 0.05). In spite of the high variability between individuals the values for each individual showed a marked constancy independent of the sampling day. According to our results, by controlling pre-analytical parameters, principally sampling and storage procedures, reproducibility is improved.