Dry Mouth (cont.)
Why is dry mouth a problem?
Besides causing the aggravating symptoms mentioned above, dry mouth also increases a person's risk of gingivitis (gum disease), tooth decay, and mouth infections, such as thrush.
Dry mouth can also make it difficult to wear dentures.
How is dry mouth treated?
If you think your dry mouth is caused by certain medications you are taking,
talk to your doctor. He or she may adjust the dose you are taking or switch you
to a different drug that doesn't cause dry mouth.
In addition, an oral rinse to restore mouth moisture may be prescribed. If
that doesn't help, a medication that stimulates saliva production, called Salagen,
may be prescribed.
Other steps you can take that may help improve saliva flow include
- Sucking on sugar-free candy or chewing sugar-free gum
- Drinking plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist
- Protecting your teeth by brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, using a fluoride rinse, and visiting your dentist regularly
- Breathing through your nose, not your mouth, as much as possible
- Using a room vaporizer to add moisture to the bedroom air
- Using an over-the-counter artificial saliva substitute.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dentistry.
Reviewed by Jay H. Rosoff, DDS on March 1, 2007
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson
Mathis, MD, on
May 1, 2005.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic
2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 12/12/2007
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