Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is defined as having an insufficient amount of spit or saliva to keep the mouth wet, reports the National Institute for Dental and Cranofacial Research, or NIDCR. Lack of saliva can interfere with talking, eating, swallowing and may even promote tooth decay. Certain lozenges can help alleviate dry by helping produce saliva-like moisture.
Causes
Dry mouth is a common problem that occurs when the salivary glands fail to work properly. Hundred of over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause dry mouth, according to the National Institute for Dental and Cranofacial Research, or NIDCR.
Chemotherapy, radiation treatments and medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease and Sjogren's syndrome, can also cause dry mouth. Parkinson's disease is a nervous system conditiion that affects movement while Sjogren's syndrome is an immune system disorder that impairs saliva and tear production.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dry mouth may include stringy or thick saliva, sore throat, burning sensation and dry, sore and cracked skin at the corners of the mouth. Dry mouth may also make it difficult to swallow or speak and may lead to hoarseness.
Complications
Diminished saliva production may also result increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Xerostomia is a hidden cause of gum disease and tooth loss in three out of every 10 adults, reports the Oral Cancer Foundation.
In some cases, dry mouth can cause a fungal infection along the lining of the mouth and tongue called oral candidiasis, or thrush. Thrush produces white, velvety lesions which may gradually increase in number and size. Hydrogen peroxide rinses usually resolve the problem.
Solutions
Lemon-flavored lozenges may help relieve dry mouth since sour foods promote saliva production, according to Harvard Health Publications. Thayers Sugar-Free Citrus Dry Mouth Lozenges may also stimulate saliva production.
Natrol Dry Mouth Relief lozenges contain a patented pharmaceutical grade of anhydrous crystalline maltose, or ACM, to encourage saliva production, reports the Oral Cancer Foundation. For best results, the lozenges are to be dissolved in the mouth three times per day.
Outlook
Chewing sugarless gum, sipping on water throughout the day and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can help relieve dry mouth, notes the NIDCR. It's also important to practice good oral hygiene which includes brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice per day and visiting your dentist regularly. Talk to your health care provider about the best treatment plan for your dry mouth.
