Dry Mouth Management

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including a sticky or dry feeling in the mouth, frequent thirst, difficulty speaking, swallowing, or tasting food, and an increased risk of tooth decay and oral infections.

Dry mouth can be caused by a number of factors, including:
• Medications: Certain medications, such as anti-depressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and pain relievers, can cause dry mouth as a side effect.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can cause dry mouth and other symptoms of dehydration.
• Smoking or using tobacco products: Smoking or using tobacco products can reduce saliva production and cause dry mouth.

Treatment for dry mouth may include:

• Drinking plenty of water and other fluids
• Chewing gum or sucking on sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva production
• Avoiding products that can make dry mouth worse, such as alcohol and caffeine
• Using a saliva substitute or mouth spray to moisten the mouth
• Taking medication to increase saliva production

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry mouth, it is important to speak with your dentist to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. In some cases, dry mouth can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition, so prompt treatment is important to prevent further complications.