Saliva, or saliva, is made by the salivary glands and is very important for a healthy mouth. It moisturizes and breaks down food, flushes food particles from teeth and gums, and helps people swallow. In addition, saliva contains minerals such as calcium and phosphate that help keep teeth strong and prevent tooth decay.

A dry mouth, also called xerostomia (VERY-oh-STOH-mee-ah), is the condition that you don't have enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Anyone can experience a dry mouth from time to time, such as when they are nervous or stressed. However, if the dry mouth persists, it can make chewing, swallowing, and even talking difficult. Dry mouth also increases the risk of tooth decay or fungal infections in the mouth, as saliva helps control harmful germs.

Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. If you think you have dry mouth, see your dentist or doctor to find out why your mouth is dry.

Causes

There are several possible causes of dry mouth:

• Side effects of some medications. Hundreds of drugs can cause the salivary glands to produce less saliva. For example, medications for high blood pressure, depression, and bladder control problems often cause dry mouth.
• Disease. Sjogren's syndrome, HIV / AIDS and diabetes can all cause dry mouth.
• Radiation therapy. The salivary glands can be damaged if they are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment.
• Chemotherapy. Medicines used to treat cancer can thicken saliva, making the mouth feel dry.
• Nerve damage. Injury to the head or neck can damage the nerves that tell the salivary glands to make saliva.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

• A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
• Problems chewing, swallowing, tasting, or speaking
• A burning sensation in the mouth
• A dry feeling in the throat
• Chapped lips
• A dry, rough tongue
• Mouth ulcers
• An infection in the mouth
• Bad breath

Diagnosis

Your doctor or dentist will review your medical history and ask about any medications you are taking. He or she may also suggest blood tests or a test that measures how much saliva you are making.

Therapy

Depending on the cause of your dry mouth, your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment. For example, if medication is causing dry mouth, the doctor or dentist may recommend a change of medication or dosage adjustment, or may prescribe a saliva substitute.

There are also self-care measures you can take to soothe dry mouth, such as drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Good oral care at home and regular dental check-ups help to keep your mouth healthy.

Helpful Hints

You can relieve dry mouth symptoms by:

• Often sip on water or sugar-free drinks.
• Sip on water or a sugar-free drink during meals. This makes chewing and swallowing easier. It can also improve the taste of food.
• Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some soda. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
• Chewing gum or sucking sugar-free hard candies to stimulate salivation; Citrus, cinnamon, or mint flavored candies are good choices. Some sugar-free gum and candies contain xylitol and can help prevent cavities.
• Avoid spicy or salty foods, which can cause pain in a dry mouth.
• Avoid tobacco or alcohol. They dry out the mouth. If you are a current smoker, consider quitting.
• Use a humidifier at night.