Dry mouth
Dry mouth. Saliva is the natural way to moisturize and cleanse the mouth. It protects against infections by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. When not enough saliva is produced, we feel dryness and discomfort.
What could be the causes of dry mouth?
- After taking certain medications (used to treat depression, pain, allergies, Parkinson’s disease)
- Side effect of certain diseases and infections (AIDS, Sjögren’s syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, stroke, and gout)
- During chemotherapy (in cancer treatment)
- Damage to the nerves of the head and neck as a result of trauma or surgery
Surgical removal of the salivary glands - Smoking or chewing tobacco can aggravate dry mouth.
- Breathing with an open mouth
What are the symptoms?
- Sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
- Feeling of constant thirst
- Sores in the mouth, ulcers, cracked lips
- Dry feeling in the throat
- Burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, especially on the tongue
- Difficulty chewing and speaking
- Hoarseness, sore throat
- Bad breath
Dry mouth can increase the risk of gum inflammation, tooth decay, and infections. It also makes wearing dentures more difficult.
What can you do?
- Sucking on sugar-free candy or chewing sugar-free gum
- Drinking more water
- Breathe through your nose rather than your mouth to avoid further drying.
- Installing an evaporator in the room to humidify the air
If you think dry mouth is caused by medication, talk to your doctor. Your doctor will adjust your dose or replace the medication. If deemed necessary, your doctor will prescribe a medication that stimulates saliva production (Salagen).