Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common condition that affects millions of people. It occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth don't produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. Saliva is essential for oral health because it:
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Washes away food particles and bacteria: Saliva helps to prevent cavities and gum disease by washing away food particles and bacteria.
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Neutralizes acids: Saliva contains bicarbonate, which helps to neutralize the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. This helps to protect your teeth from erosion.
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Lubricates your mouth: Saliva makes it easier to speak, swallow, and chew.
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Helps you taste food: Saliva helps you to taste food by dissolving the food particles so that you can taste them.
If you have dry mouth, you may experience the following symptoms:
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A sticky, dry feeling in your mouth
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Difficulty swallowing
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Hoarseness
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Bad breath
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A burning or tingling sensation in your mouth
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Difficulty wearing dentures
Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Medications: Many medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics, can cause dry mouth as a side effect.
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Medical conditions: Dry mouth can be a symptom of certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome, and HIV/AIDS.
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Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dry mouth.
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Smoking: Smoking can damage the salivary glands and reduce saliva production.
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Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy to the head and neck can damage the salivary glands and lead to permanent dry mouth.
If you have dry mouth, it's important to see your dentist or doctor to determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment. There are a number of things you can do to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth, including:
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Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking water, milk, or sugar-free drinks throughout the day can help to keep your mouth moist.
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Suck on sugar-free candy or lozenges: Sucking on sugar-free candy or lozenges can help to stimulate saliva production.
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Use a saliva substitute: Saliva substitutes are available over-the-counter and can help to keep your mouth moist.
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Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate you and make dry mouth worse.
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Quit smoking: Smoking can damage the salivary glands and make dry mouth worse.
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Use a humidifier: Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and make your mouth feel more comfortable.
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Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can help to stimulate saliva production.
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Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to help prevent cavities and gum disease.
If you have dry mouth, it's important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can check for signs of cavities and gum disease and recommend additional treatment options if needed.
Dry mouth is a common condition that can make it difficult to eat, speak, and swallow. However, there are a number of things you can do to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth and improve your oral health. If you have dry mouth, be sure to see your dentist or doctor to determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment.
Dental Blog | Dentist Menasha, WI | Mid Valley Dental, S.C. Michael J. Wockenfus, DDS created a blog to educate the community. It is your resource for all dentistry questions. Learn and read topics in the blog here! Mid Valley Dental, SC, 903 E. Airport Road, Menasha, WI 54952 / (920) 215-4160 / midvalleydental.com / 3/19/2025 / Page Phrases: dentist Menasha WI /
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common condition that affects millions of people. It occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth don't produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. Saliva is essential for oral health because it:
