Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when there is reduced secretion of saliva into the oral cavity.
Many factors can lead to xerostomia. These include medications, systemic diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome, aging, and radiotherapy for treating oral cancer.
Saliva is essential for lubricating and cleansing the oral cavity. Therefore, reduced production can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including a burning sensation, pain, cavities, problems with talking and swallowing, altered taste, and halitosis. Affected individuals have an increased tendency to traumatic oral ulcers and oral fungal infections (candidiasis).
The clinical diagnosis of xerostomia is made through a thorough clinical history and examination. Salivary flow measurements are also helpful in the diagnostic process. Depending on initial findings, laboratory tests, radiographs, and salivary gland biopsy may be indicated.
Although the management of dry mouth is individualized for each patient, the ten tips below are generalized and can help all patients impacted by dry mouth.
10 Self-Care Tips for Improving Dry Mouth
1. Sip water frequently to keep hydrated and prevent your mouth from drying out.
2 Suck on ice chips to soothe your mouth, improve lubrication and reduce oral burning.
3. Avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes, which can dry out your mouth.
4. Try various dry mouth products from brands such Biotene, Xerostom, and Xylimelt.
Available products include mouthwashes, toothpaste, gels, lozenges, and sprays specially formulated to increase lubrication of the oral cavity. You may need to try different brands until you find the one that works best for you.
5. Suck on sugar-free lemon drops or candies, which can stimulate the secretion of saliva.
6. Limit your caffeine consumption.
7. Use a humidifier in the bedroom at night.
8. Quit smoking.
9. Avoid mouth-breathing, which further dries up the mouth leading to worse symptoms
10. Limit heavy spices in food, which tends to promote oral burning sensation and discomfort.
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© 2021. The Oral Medicine Specialist - Dr. Chizobam Idahosa
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