Dry mouth can be divided into two categories. First type of dry mouth is caused by dehydration or lack of water. Although it is important to mention that dehydration can be caused by a systemic health condition like diabetes, hemorrhage or even renal failure, most cases of dehydration are caused by insufficient fluid intake or excessive fluid loss.

The second type of dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition where the production of saliva is either decreased or completely diminished. Xerostomia or dry mouth syndrome usually is a symptom of a disease, medication or natural process of aging.

Saliva has many functions. One of the main ones is lubrication of the mouth, which acts as a buffer to reduce the effects of acid produced by bacteria. Some other functions also include speech, ability to taste food, it enables food to be "washed away" from teeth after a meal and saliva also provides minerals which help re-mineralize teeth.

Individuals who suffer from dry mouth syndrome usually will have increased number of cavities, mucositis or inflammation of the oral mucosa, increased number of bacteria (which translates into greater incidence of infections), increased risk for gum disease and a poor diet due to inability to taste food.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth:

Medication is the most common cause of dry mouth (nonprescription and prescription drugs). Always read through the information sheet that came with the medication to find out if dry mouth is one of the side effects. Aging is another possible cause of dry mouth. As we age the volume of secretions in general is decreased. With age the salivary gland function is decreased and therefore doesn't produce sufficient saliva. Systemic disease is another cause of xerostomia. Some of the conditions that can lead to dry mouth are hypertension, diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome and many more.

Radiation therapy received in the head and neck area will partially or completely destroy otherwise normal salivary glands. This leads to severely diminished or complete lack of salivary flow. Removal of salivary glands will cause the same effect. Insufficient fluid intake will cause dehydration. If the fluid output is greater than the input of fluid into the body, imbalance will be created that can lead to dryness in the mouth.

Some of the less common causes of dry mouth can be smoking, alcohol consumption and use of mouthwash, which contains alcohol. Alcohol evaporates quickly leaving the surface dry. The argument is that the high alcohol content will destroy more bacteria. We have to remember that most of microorganisms living in our mouths live in harmony with each other. Using an alcohol containing mouthwash disrupts the natural environment and throws off the balance. Usually symptoms of dry mouth will appear minutes after use.

Duration of Dry Mouth:

The length of time that the symptom of dry mouth persists is dependant on the source. If the cause of the dry mouth such as medication, medical illness, etc. is not eliminated the condition will persist indefinitely. Dry mouth can be a permanent complication in patients with history of radiation therapy or surgical removal of salivary glands.

Prevention and Treatment of dry mouth:

There are many different ways of coping with dry mouth, depending upon the cause. If you do have a medical condition or are on medication, talk to your doctor about choosing medication, which doesn't affect oral secretions. Many times there are several different medications that will treat the same condition with different side effects.

Make sure you increase fluid intake throughout the day. Staying well hydrated will decrease the chances of getting dry mouth. Sucking on sugar-free candy (buy sugar-free candy)or chewing sugarless gum (buy sugarless gum) can stimulate salivary flow.

In more chronic cases of dry mouth an over-the-counter oral moisturizer (browse through oral moisturizers) or saliva substitute (browse through saliva substitute products) can be a great adjunct to the previously mentioned methods. In cases where a mouth rinse has to be used stick with mouth rinses or mouthwashes that do not contain alcohol or peroxide. See below for more tips of how to prevent dry mouth:

    -Eliminate salty and dry foods from your diet

    -Avoid beverages with high sugar contents

    -Avoid smoking (Browse through products that can help you quit smoking)

    -Avoid alcohol or caffeine (both cause dehydration)

    -Use a humidifier ( Cool Mist Humidifier )

    -Artificial saliva products (Buy Artificial saliva Products)

What Should You Do if You Suffer From Dry Mouth:

One of the most common complications of dry mouth is tooth decay or caries. Regular dental visits are recommended. In more extreme cases such as limited or no salivary flow due to history of radiation treatment or any type of salivary gland disease like Sjogren's syndrome, monthly visits are ideal. In case cavities are noted, early intervention can limit the amount of tooth destruction. Supplemental fluoride, applied in the dental office and at home, can help decrease or even eliminate completely formation of cavities. Ask your dentist or hygienist if fluoride could be beneficial for you. One of the most important steps we can take if we suffer from dry mouth is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing several times a day and flossing at least once a day. Always floss before brushing. No matter how severe the dry mouth is we have to remember that it is still the bacteria, which flourish in dry conditions that cause tooth decay. Dry mouth can indirectly lead to cavities.  

When To Seek Help:

Call your doctor or dentist if you suffer from dry mouth or its associated symptoms such as inability to taste, bad breath, difficulty swallowing, burning of the tongue, constant thirst and uncomfortable dry mouth. With xerostomia the treatment is mainly to control symptoms and eliminate any complications. With proper treatment, most patients with dry mouth can regain oral comfort and the ability to speak, taste food and live comfortably. With excellent dental hygiene, individuals can reduce dental problems associated with dry mouth.

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