Xerostomia is the clinical term for a dry mouth, a condition that arises from an insufficient flow of saliva. It is not a disease itself but is recognized as a symptom of other underlying issues. While temporary mouth dryness is common, chronic xerostomia is a persistent state that can affect overall well-being. When the salivary glands fail to produce an adequate supply of saliva, it can lead to discomfort and other health problems.
Symptoms and Associated Complications
The feeling of xerostomia extends beyond simple thirst. Individuals often describe a sticky or cotton-like sensation in their mouth and throat. Saliva may become thick and stringy, making it difficult to chew, swallow, or speak clearly. Other common symptoms include a burning feeling, a dry or raw tongue, hoarseness, and persistent bad breath.
The reduction in saliva presents health risks because saliva is a defense mechanism for oral health. It helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria, wash away food particles, and limit microbe growth. Without sufficient saliva, the risk for dental decay and plaque accumulation increases.
This dry environment can also lead to other oral health issues. Gum disease, such as gingivitis, can develop more easily. The mouth also becomes more susceptible to fungal infections like oral thrush, caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. The constant dryness can cause sores, cracked lips, or splits at the corners of the mouth.
Common Causes of Xerostomia
Medications are one of the most frequent culprits for impaired salivary gland function. Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs list dry mouth as a side effect, including common medications like antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications. Muscle relaxants and sedatives also reduce saliva flow.
Certain medical conditions are linked to chronic dry mouth. Autoimmune disorders, most notably Sjögren’s syndrome, directly damage moisture-producing glands, including the salivary glands. Other systemic diseases such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and Alzheimer’s disease can also cause xerostomia.
Medical treatments, particularly those for cancer, can have an impact on saliva production. Radiation therapy aimed at the head and neck can permanently damage the salivary glands. Similarly, some chemotherapy drugs can alter the consistency and volume of saliva, making it thicker and causing the mouth to feel dry.
Nerve damage to the head or neck resulting from an injury or surgery can also disrupt the signals that tell salivary glands to produce saliva. Lifestyle factors also play a part; dehydration, smoking, chewing tobacco, and habitual mouth breathing can all contribute to the condition.
Managing and Treating Dry Mouth
Management strategies for xerostomia often begin with simple lifestyle adjustments. Sipping water or other sugarless drinks frequently throughout the day, especially during meals, can make chewing and swallowing easier. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free hard candies can help stimulate the natural flow of saliva.
It is also advisable to avoid substances that can exacerbate dryness, such as caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. Using a humidifier at night can add moisture to the air, which is helpful for those who breathe through their mouth while sleeping.
For more persistent symptoms, over-the-counter products are available. These include saliva substitutes in the form of sprays, gels, or rinses designed to mimic natural saliva. Mouthwashes specifically formulated for dry mouth can also help soothe and moisturize oral tissues. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important to prevent dental complications.
If self-care measures are insufficient, consulting a doctor or dentist is an important step to identify and address the root cause. If a specific medication is responsible, a physician might adjust the dosage or switch to an alternative drug. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medication to stimulate the salivary glands to produce more saliva. A dentist might recommend custom-fit fluoride trays to wear at night for those at high risk of tooth decay.