Dry mouth is the feeling that there is not enough saliva in the mouth. If you have dry mouth all or most of the time, it can be uncomfortable and may lead to serious health problems, as well as cause difficulties in tasting, chewing, swallowing or speaking. Dry mouth occurs when the glands in the mouth that make saliva are not working properly and can be caused by certain medications such as prescriptions for high blood pressure or depression, treatments including chemotherapy or radiation, and some diseases such as diabetes.
Treatment for dry mouth will depend on what is causing the dry mouth. If you think you have dry mouth, see your dentist or physician. If your dry mouth is caused by medicine, your physician might change your prescription or adjust the dosage. If your salivary glands are not working right, but can still produce some saliva, your physician or dentist might give you a medicine that helps the glands work better. Regardless of the cause, dry mouth can increase your chance of developing dental decay (cavities) or other infections in the mouth, so it is important to see your dentist regularly to prevent problems from occurring.
Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging! If you think you have dry mouth, you should ask Dr. Berry or see your physician – there are things you can do to get relief.
What can you do to help?
1. Sip water or sugarless drinks often to keep mouth hydrated and use a humidifier at night.
2. Avoid drinks with caffeine such as coffee, tea and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
3. Similarly, (avoid) tobacco or alcohol can dry out the mouth. This includes alcohol containing mouthwashes. Look for a mouthwash such as ACT Brand that does not contain alcohol.
4. During meals, sip water or sugarless drinks. This will make chewing and swallowing easier and may improve the taste of food.
5. Chew sugarless gum or sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow.
6. Try to avoid sticky or sugary foods and gently brush your teeth at least twice a day. Floss your teeth every day.
7. Use artificial saliva products available at any drugstore such as Biotene or Oasis brand products.
8. Ask Dr. Berry about prescription strength toothpaste that can help protect against cavities.