Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia. Xerostomia occurs when you feel that you do not have enough saliva in your mouth. You may have dry mouth all the time if glands that make saliva stop working properly.Successful treatment for dry mouth depends on what's causing your condition. See your dentist or health care provider if you have dry mouth all the time.
Symptoms
Sticky, thick or stringy saliva may accompany a dry feeling in your mouth. You may have trouble speaking, chewing, swallowing or tasting food. Dryness may occur in your throat or accompany a burning sensation in your mouth. You may have dry tongue and lips that are chapped or cracked lips. Mouth sores or an infection in your mouth may also occur with dry mouth.
Causes
According to The National Institute of Dental and Cranial Research, over 400 medications may reduce the amount of saliva produced by your salivary glands. Medications for depression and anxiety, allergies, nasal congestion, blood pressure and diarrhea may produce dry mouth. Muscle relaxants, urinary incontinence drugs, Parkinson's and chemotherapy drugs may also cause dry mouth. Radiation treatments to your head and neck can damage your salivary glands, reduce saliva production and cause dry mouth. Injury or surgery that damages nerves in your head or neck area may cause dry mouth. Smoking or chewing tobacco can increase dry mouth symptoms
Complications
Complications may arise from insufficient amounts of saliva. Dry mouth may increase your chances of developing tooth decay and infections in your mouth, because bacterial growth may occur without enough saliva to wash away food and plaques. Dry mouth may agitate or contribute to digestive and gastrointestinal problems, because saliva contains enzymes that help you digest food. You may not get enough of the nutrients you need if dry mouth inhibits your ability to chew and swallow certain foods.
Lifestyle Remedies
Breath through your nose and avoid breathing through your mouth. Sip on water and sugar-free beverages throughout your day. Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks like coffee, green tea and soda. Sugarless citrus, cinnamon or mint-flavored gum and candy can help stimulate the flow of saliva. Avoid tobacco products, alcoholic beverages and mouthwash. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and rinse your mouth with a fluoride solution before going to sleep at night. Consider using a dehumidifier in your bedroom while you sleep.
Drug Remedies
Your doctor may alter your medication if drugs are causing your dry mouth. Your doctor may recommend artificial saliva or prescribe drugs that stimulate saliva production. Artificial saliva is available in aerosol or liquid form that you squirt into your mouth. Cevimeline and pilocarpine are known as cholinergic agonists. These drugs increase the amount of saliva in your mouth.
