Dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia, is a common condition where salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth adequately moist. This oral dryness can range from mild discomfort to a debilitating issue. Artificial saliva helps relieve symptoms of insufficient natural saliva production.
What is Artificial Saliva?
Artificial saliva, also known as salivary substitutes, is a liquid designed to imitate natural saliva’s lubricating and moisturizing properties. It provides symptomatic relief for xerostomia. Its purpose is to restore oral moisture, alleviating discomfort and supporting oral health when natural saliva production is low.
Xerostomia stems from various factors, frequently medication side effects. Hundreds of medications, including those for depression, high blood pressure, and anxiety, can reduce saliva flow. Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, which attack moisture-producing glands, also contribute. Radiation therapy, especially to the head and neck, can damage salivary glands, reducing saliva output. While dry mouth is more prevalent among older individuals, it is often linked to the medications they take for chronic diseases rather than aging itself.
How Artificial Saliva Works
Artificial saliva products contain ingredients that mimic natural saliva’s functions. Common components include cellulose derivatives (e.g., carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxyethyl cellulose), acting as rheological modifiers. These increase viscosity and adhere to oral tissues, forming a protective and lubricating film. Glycerol is often included, coating oral surfaces to reduce moisture loss and protect against mechanical irritation.
Many formulations include mineral ions like calcium, phosphate, and fluoride to simulate natural saliva’s protective qualities. These minerals support tooth remineralization, strengthening enamel and guarding against decay. Buffering agents, such as sodium and potassium phosphate, maintain a stable oral pH, protecting enamel and balancing the oral microbiome. Some substitutes contain mucin, a glycoprotein found in natural saliva, which forms a protective and lubricating film.
Forms and Application
Artificial saliva comes in various forms. Common product types include oral sprays, gels, rinses, and lozenges. Some are integrated into specialized toothpastes or mouthwashes. These diverse forms allow for different application methods, catering to varying levels of dryness and personal preferences.
Sprays are applied directly into the mouth as needed for quick oral tissue moistening. Gels coat oral tissues, offering a longer-lasting film of moisture and lubrication. Rinses hydrate and cleanse when swished; lozenges dissolve slowly to release lubricating agents and sometimes stimulate residual saliva production. Application frequency varies based on product formulation and individual needs.
Benefits of Using Artificial Saliva
Artificial saliva alleviates uncomfortable dry mouth symptoms. It reduces feelings of dryness and stickiness, making speaking, chewing, and swallowing more comfortable. Individuals find it easier to consume dry or crumbly foods, improving oral comfort. This relief contributes to a better quality of life for those with persistent xerostomia.
Beyond symptomatic relief, artificial saliva protects oral health. By mimicking natural saliva’s functions, it reduces the risk of dental caries (cavities). Saliva naturally neutralizes acids and washes away food particles; artificial saliva supports these actions. It helps prevent gum disease and oral infections, such as candidiasis (oral thrush), which are more common with reduced saliva flow. Added lubrication reduces friction, minimizing mechanical trauma to oral tissues.