Dry mouth: causes and solutions
In short: a dry mouth (xerostomia) happens when saliva drops, and the most frequent cause is certain medicines, as well as dehydration, stress, tobacco or breathing through the mouth. It is not just uncomfortable: saliva protects the teeth, so with little saliva the risk of decay and gum problems rises. That is why it is worth treating, not just enduring.
Why does saliva matter?
Saliva is not just “water in the mouth”: it is a shield. It neutralises the acids that attack the enamel, washes away debris of food and bacteria, and helps repair the enamel with its minerals. When it is lacking, the mouth is left unprotected.
That is why a persistent dry mouth is not a cosmetic detail: it genuinely increases the risk of decay, of gum disease and of bad breath.
Why does my mouth get dry?
The most common causes:
- Medicines. This is the number one cause. A great many drugs (for blood pressure, antidepressants, antihistamines…) reduce saliva.
- Dehydration. Drinking too little water.
- Stress and anxiety.
- Breathing through the mouth (while asleep, due to congestion).
- Tobacco and alcohol, which dry it out.
- Some illnesses and treatments.
How can you relieve it?
Simple measures that help a great deal:
- Drink water in sips throughout the day.
- Sugar-free gum or sweets: they stimulate saliva (sugar-free, mind you).
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol and excess caffeine.
- Artificial saliva: there are specific sprays and gels at the chemist.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwashes, because your risk of decay is higher.
- Humidify the bedroom if you breathe through your mouth at night.
When to seek advice
If the dryness is persistent, it is worth assessing for two reasons: to relieve it and to protect your teeth from the higher risk of decay. If you suspect the cause is a medicine, do not stop it on your own: mention it to your doctor, who can adjust it. And at the clinic we reinforce prevention (fluoride, more frequent check-ups) so that a dry mouth does not take its toll.
If you often notice a dry mouth, come in and we will assess it. The first visit is free. Book an appointment whenever you like.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my mouth dry?
A dry mouth (xerostomia) is usually caused by certain medicines (the most common cause), by dehydration, stress, breathing through the mouth, tobacco and alcohol, or by some illnesses. Saliva drops and you notice a pasty mouth, thirst and sometimes bad breath.
Is a dry mouth bad for your teeth?
Yes. Saliva protects: it neutralises acids, washes away debris and helps repair the enamel. With little saliva, the risk of decay, gum problems and bad breath goes up. That is why a persistent dry mouth is worth treating, not just putting up with.
How do you get rid of the feeling of a dry mouth?
It helps to sip water often, chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and use specific products (artificial saliva sprays or gels). If the cause is a medicine, it is worth mentioning it to your doctor.
Can we help with your case?
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