Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is what happens when saliva flow is reduced or absent. It may be a symptom of your medical condition or medications. It is not a disease and is quite common. While it may seem like a minor condition, moist saliva is critical to the health of the mouth and has protective benefits for oral tissues and to prevent tooth decay. Extreme dry mouth may contribute to permanent mouth or throat disorders.

First, let’s talk about why saliva is important. Saliva aids in killing harmful bacteria, and keeps your mouth moist, which in turn helps to prevent cavities and strengthens your teeth by restoring important minerals.

This is a common condition. Some of the most frequent causes are from certain prescription medications such as antihistamines, diuretics, antihypertensives and sedatives. Malfunctions in the salivary glands, certain autoimmune disorders (such as Sjogren’s syndrome), fear, anxiety, and radiation or chemotherapy can contribute to dry mouth. Diabetes, dehydration, chewing tobacco, hormonal imbalances, mouth breathing and sleep apnea can cause the mouth to be dry.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

The symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe and can cause much discomfort. Some of the symptoms of dry mouth are:

• a dry feeling in the mouth
• frequent thirst
• diminished sense of taste
• chapped or cracked lips
• increased tooth decay
• painful tongue
• fungal infections in the mouth and throat
• inflammation of the gums
• difficulty speaking, eating, or swallowing
• difficulty wearing dentures

Dry Mouth Treatment

Keeping the mouth moist throughout the day is helpful. First, hydrate! It is important to carry water with you and sip constantly during the day. Adding xylitol to your diet will help to reduce your chances of decay. This can be found in toothpaste,chewing gum, lozenges and mouth sprays. One of my favorite products is Spry mouth spray, which is portable, and can be used several times per day. Avoid caffeine, tobacco and alcohol, and mouthwash with alcohol, which are dehydrating and drying to the mouth. A humidifier, especially in the winter, helps to keep the air around you moist.

Since patients with this condition are prone to have a higher rate of decay it is important to have regular checkups with your family dentist. A dentist can evaluate and help determine the possible causes and necessary treatment options, and then monitor progress.