Dry Mouth

Having a dry mouth for a long time is a very annoying condition, and sometimes it can lead to several serious complications.

Dry mouth

Dry mouth condition occurs when there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth as there should be for a long time.

Dry mouth is a common condition and occurs in about 1 in each 5 people.

Causes of dry mouth

• Aging.
• Cancer therapy.
• Certain medications, such as those for hypertension, Parkinson’s disease, depression, anxiety, antihistamines, decongestants, muscle relaxants, and pain drugs.
• Nerve damage in the head or neck area.
• Snoring and mouth breathing.
• Smoking.
• Alcohol.
• Illegal drugs.
• Certain conditions, such as dehydration, conditions with the salivary glands, diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and HIV.

Symptoms of dry mouth

• Dryness and stickiness in the mouth.
• Dry tongue.
• Thickness of the saliva.
• Increased thirst.
• Bad breath.
• Problems with speaking, eating, and swallowing.
• Hoarseness.
• Sore throat.
• Changes in the taste.
• Trouble wearing dentures.
• Dry mouth can lead to mouth sores, increased plaque and tooth decay, frequent gum problems, cracked lips, and poor nutrition due to the eating and swallowing problems.

Diagnosis of dry mouth

• Physical exam.
• Medical history.

Treatment of dry mouth

• Treating dry mouth depends on the cause in addition to specific products that moisturize the mouth.
• You can reduce the risk of dry mouth by practicing good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, limiting foods and drinks that might cause xerostomia, such as sugary, spicy, and acidic foods, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, and avoiding smoking.