Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, clinically known as Xerostomia, is caused by a decrease in saliva production and is a common condition suffered by many from time to time. Sometimes however, it can be prolonged which can severely affect the sufferer’s quality of life. It has been estimated that as much as 20% of the adult population may be suffering the effects of dry mouth.

Temporary dry mouth can be because of anxiety, stress, vitamin deficiency or smoking. Prolonged dry mouth usually leads to a marked deterioration in oral health, often resulting in the loss of teeth and affecting the general well-being of the person.

The most common cause however, is the 500 commonly used drugs where dry mouth is a side effect. The causes of long term or irreversible dry mouth can include radiotherapy, head & neck surgery, Diabetes, Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis to name but a few.

Apart from its more obvious role of lubrication and cleansing, saliva is the body’s oral protection mechanism against the introduction of infection into the body via the mouth as well as playing a fundamental role in protecting the teeth and oral tissues from disease. Where there is a reduced saliva flow, the lack of salivary protection can lead to severe oral symptoms causing considerable distress and discomfort to the sufferer.

Oral examination may reveal a split or cracked tongue, swollen gums, gingivitis, increased dental plaque, dental caries, oral thrush or ulceration.  Any or all of these problems can arise as a direct result of a lack of saliva – although you may not be aware of the cause.

Typically, dry mouth sufferers complain of symptoms such as a ‘burning’ mouth, abnormal taste sensations, and bad breath, difficulty in speaking and eating and inability to retain dentures.

Treatments for Dry Mouth

• Chew sugar-free gum

• Limit your caffeine intake.

• Don’t use mouthwashes that contain alcohol because they can be drying.

• Stop all tobacco use if you smoke or chew tobacco.

• Sip water regularly.

• Try over-the-counter saliva substitutes. Look for ones containing carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxyethyl cellulose, such as Biotene Oral Balance.