Dry Mouth

Overview

Xerostomia is abnormal dryness of the mucous membranes in the mouth that occurs because of a decrease in saliva production. It affects about one in five adults and is more common in women and among older people.

Causes

There are numerous reasons why dry mouth occurs including:

  • as a side effect to more than 400 commonly prescribed drugs
  • Sjogren's Syndrome, an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own moisture producing glands.
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • stress or anxiety
  • nutritional deficiencies
  • aging
  • diabetes
  • stroke
  • radiation therapy

Symptoms

While having a dry mouth is an obvious symptom, others may include:

  • sore throat
  • hoarseness
  • difficulty swallowing or chewing
  • cracked lips
  • dry nasal passages
  • burning tongue

Without adequate saliva to neutralize acids that are produced by plaque, you could experience more cavities in your teeth. Left untreated, dry mouth can also lead to ulcers in the mouth.

Treatment and Prevention

If your mouth is dry as a result of a drug that you are taking, your doctor may want to change your prescription. If you have Sjogren's syndrome or if you have had radiation therapy, he or she may prescribe pilocarpine, a drug which will help stimulate saliva production. Otherwise, he or she may advise you to:

  • eat a healthy, well balanced diet
  • avoid salty or dry foods
  • avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine
  • quit smoking
  • sip water frequently but avoid fruit juices
  • chew sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production
  • use an artificial saliva solution to help moisten your mouth
  • use a lip balm for cracked lips

It is also very important that you visit your dentist regularly.