Xerostomia “Dry Mouth”

Dry mouth increases your chances of cavities because the primary function of saliva is to help wash away the plaque and the food debris left in your mouth after eating. This can affect 1 in 4 adults.

The most common causes

Side effects of certain medications, Sjogren syndrome, Celiac disease, radiation and chemo therapy, surgery, certain autoimmune diseases and age.

Impact on the oral cavity

A greater risk of cavities at an alarming rate. Lower levels of saliva. Increased accumulation of sticky plaque. Higher risk of gum disease. Lower PH level in the mouth. A dry feeling in the mouth, cracked lips, mouth sores, bad breath. Trouble chewing, swallowing, tasting, or speaking. A burning or itchy or dry feeling in the mouth or throat.

Helpful Tips

  • Sip water throughout the day and during meals. Drink water while eating and sip water between bites.
  • Avoiding or limit drinks with caffeine, such as coffee and tea. Caffeine can dry out the mouth. Tobacco and  alcohol can also dry out the mouth. You must avoid sipping tea or coffee all day long.
  • Chewing sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; citrus, and cinnamon flavored candies are good choices. Some sugarless chewing gums and candies contain xylitol and may help prevent cavities.
  • Being aware that spicy or salty foods may cause pain or a burning sensation in a dry mouth.
  • Eliminate sugary, sticky foods and drinks, fruit juices, sodas and sweetners.
  • Brush and floss your teeth after every meal.
  • Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol because this can dry out your mouth.
  • Re-mineralizing your teeth with fluoride found in toothpastes, mouth rinses, and in-office fluoride treatment. This is strongly recommended to prevent cavities. Xylitol and hydroxyapetite products can also be helpful.
  • Use a humidifier while sleeping – cold and warm mist both work
  • Make sure you visit your dental hygienist and your dentist at least twice a year for cleaning and check-ups.

Improve moisture in mouth with Saliva Substitutes with these items:

Homemade Dry Mouth Recipe:

  1. Combine:
  • 4 cups water 
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp baking soda.     
  1. Rinse and spit throughout the day
(to be used at night)
(try the mouthwash, gel, toothpaste or spray)
  • Oral B or Therabreath (moisturizing lozenges)   
  • On Amazon.com (U.S.): 
    • Numoisyn: liquid/lozenges
    • Oasis: mouth rinse/spray       
  • “Oil Pulling” with coconut oil.  Place 1/2 tsp in mouth, swish it for up to 15 minutes,  (preferably first thing in the morning on an empty stomach), spit in napkin and rinse with warm water.  This technique can reduce decay causing bacteria and yeast in the mouth and lubricate mouth.

!!  Don’t forget to floss and waterpik and brush daily  !!