Dry Mouth also known as Xerostomia, is characterized by a decreased flow in saliva. Dry mouth is more common in older adults as a result of aging and hormonal changes; medical illnesses such as cancer that require radiation therapy to the face/neck, and Sjrogens syndrome among others. Dry mouth is also a side effect from a wide variety of medications including drugs used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies, obesity, acne, epilepsy, hypertension, diarrhea, nausea, psychotic disorders, asthma, and Parkinson's disease.

Some problems associated with dry mouth may be difficulty speaking, burning sensation, difficulty swallowing, and dry nasal passage. When saliva is reduced or absent, it can also negatively affect the teeth and gums. Our saliva has natural buffers which help protect our teeth from acids made by plaque and helps wash debris off the teeth. People who have dry mouth are more prone to developing inflamed gums, tooth decay, or fungal infections on the oral tissues. 

If you have dry mouth, there are some helpful products and remedies. Sipping on water through out the day is a cost effective way to help moisten the mouth and rinse the teeth. There are special lozenges (called Salease )that help promote saliva flow. Biotene are products that help moisten and neutralize the oral enviorment. Artificial saliva's such as Saliva Substitute, Mouth Kote, and Moi-Stir can also help. For more severe cases of dry mouth, prescribed medications such as Salagen and Evoxac can help stimulate salivary function.

Those who suffer from dry mouth tend to have higher levels of plaque than those with normal saliva and should see their dentist more often. Managing dental decay is critical for those suffering from dry mouth. Fluoride/ Acidulated Calcium Phosphate (ACP) delivery trays or in-office treatments can help protect and re-mineralize the tooth. At home, it is very important to clean the teeth and gums properly and remove all plaque everyday. Some tools that will improve home care include: electric tooth brushes, daily flossing, tongue scraper, and a water flosser by WaterPik. Talk to your dentist or hygienist if you suffer from dry mouth or have noticed a change in your salivary flow. 

Written by: Camile Periat, RDH and James Calcagno, DDS