Dry mouth isn't an uncommon problem, particularly if you're feeling nervous. Fortunately, dry mouth caused by your emotions is only a temporary problem that is quickly relieved with a drink of water. When dry mouth occurs on a regular basis and isn't attributed to nerves, it can cause tooth decay and discomfort in the mouth and throat.
Identification
Salivary glands in the mouth produce saliva, a watery substance that helps to break down food, aids in chewing and swallowing, and controls the growth of fungi and bacteria in your mouth. Dry mouth results when your salivary glands are unable to produce enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. The American Dental Association reports that extensive tooth decay can occur without adequate saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food and neutralize acids produced by plaque.
Symptoms
In addition to a dry feeling in your mouth and throat, other symptoms of dry mouth include bad breath, stringy saliva, sore throat, fungal infections, increased plaque and tooth decay and difficulty chewing, swallowing or talking. A lack of saliva can dry out your tongue and lips, causing cracked lips and sores at the corners of your mouths. Decreased saliva production can also affect your sense of taste.
Causes
Antidepressants, decongestants, antihistamines, muscle relaxants and drugs that treat high blood pressure, urinary incontinence, cancer and Parkinson's disease can cause dry mouth. You may also experience dry mouth if you smoke or have certain diseases, such as HIV, AIDS, diabetes and Sjogren's syndrome. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that salivary glands can be damaged if they are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment. Nerve damage may also cause a decrease in saliva production.
Treatment
Changing your medication may be all that it is needed to improve saliva production if dry mouth occurs as a side effect of a medication. If your salivary glands don't produce sufficient saliva, your doctor may recommend that you take prescription medication to increase saliva production.
Home Remedies
Sugar-free gums and candies can improve saliva production. Saliva substitutes, available at drug stores, may also be helpful in relieving dry mouth. MayoClinic.com recommends using substitutes that contain carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxyethyl. Drinking water or beverages that don't contain sugar or caffeine can help your mouth feel less dry. Drinking sugary beverages can increase tooth decay while drinking caffeinated beverages can worsen dry mouth.
