Dry mouth occurs as a result of reduced saliva flow. Most of us have probably experienced dry mouth from time-to-time especially when we are stressed or nervous.
Chronic dry mouth (xerostomia) occurs when the saliva-producing glands in the mouth are not working properly due to medication, disease, medical treatments or hormonal changes.
Forty per cent of elderly people experience dry mouth, however, the problem can occur at any age and is not a normal symptom of ageing.
What are the symptoms of dry mouth? Individuals suffering from dry mouth may experience:
- A burning, sticky or dry feeling in the mouth.
- Difficulty eating, especially dry foods.
- Trouble speaking.
- A dry feeling in the throat or a dry, rough tongue.
- Cracked lips.
- Food tastes different.
What causes dry mouth?
There are a number of causes of dry mouth:
- Prescribed and over-the-counter medications. More than 400 medications are associated with dry mouth, including antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, diuretics, high blood pressure drugs and antidepressants.
- Some diseases affect saliva production, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s disease and Sjögren’s Syndrome (chronic disorder characterised by dry eyes and mouth).
- Radiation and chemotherapy cancer treatments.
- Hormonal changes due to pregnancy and menopause.
Should I see my dentist/doctor?
If your mouth is constantly dry you should make an appointment to visit your doctor or dentist. The protective effects of saliva are very important to your oral health and if left untreated, lack of saliva can damage your teeth:
- Saliva lubricates your mouth with a continuous protective coating and washes away food from the teeth and gums.
- Saliva neutralises the acid caused by plaque that leads to tooth decay.
- It contains fluoride, which helps to strengthen the teeth and repair the initial damage of tooth decay.
Besides excessive tooth decay, other problems that can occur as a result of dry mouth include:
- Difficulty in tasting, chewing, swallowing and speaking.
- Increased risk of mouth sores and mouth infections.
- Bad breath.
- Dentures become uncomfortable.
- Decreases the absorption of nutrients from food.
Are there any treatments for dry mouth?
- Take frequent sips of water or sugar-free drinks. Keep a glass of water with you during the day and at your bedside. Avoid caffeinated and fizzy drinks as they can dry out the mouth.
- Sugar-free chewing gum or boiled sweets help to stimulate saliva flow. Good choices are citrus, cinnamon and mint flavors.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol - they tend to dry out the mouth.
- Be aware that spicy or salty foods may cause pain in a dry mouth.
- If you suspect your dry mouth is a side-effect of medication, ask your doctor if another medicine or dosage would work for you.
- If your salivary glands can still produce some salvia, your dentist or doctor may prescribe a medicine to help them work better.
- Artificial saliva preparations available at your pharmacy may be recommended to keep your mouth wet.
- Using saliva substitute just before eating in the morning and at night may be helpful.
How can I keep my teeth and gums healthy with dry mouth?
If you have dry mouth, taking extra care of your teeth and gums is important.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a specially formulated fluoride toothpaste for your condition.
- Avoid sugary, sticky foods and other foods that irritate your mouth.
- Floss your teeth every day and use a recommended mouthwash occasionally.
- See your dentist for regular check-ups and cleaning.
