Dry Mouth

Dry mouth (xerostomia) is more than an annoyance — saliva protects teeth from decay, lubricates speech and swallowing, and contains antibacterial factors. Persistent dryness leads to rapid dental decay, fungal infections, and poor nutrition.

Common causes

• Medicines — the single most common cause. Antihistamines, antidepressants, blood-pressure drugs, bladder medicines, opioids, many psychiatric drugs, chemotherapy. A polypharmacy review can help.
• Dehydration, mouth breathing, snoring.
• Diabetes — especially when sugars run high.
• Sjögren's syndrome — autoimmune; dry eyes + dry mouth + often joint pain.
• Radiation therapy to head and neck — often causes long-term dryness.
• Anxiety, stress, depression.
• Ageing per se does not cause dry mouth — but older adults are more often on drying medicines.

Everyday relief

• Sip water often; keep a bottle close at hand.
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free mints — stimulates saliva.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol (including mouthwashes containing alcohol), which worsen dryness.
• Avoid tobacco.
• Use a humidifier at night if you mouth-breathe; treat nasal blockage.
• Saliva substitutes (sprays, gels, lozenges) are available in pharmacies.
• Prescription pilocarpine class drugs can stimulate saliva production (under a doctor).

Protect the teeth

• Dry mouth accelerates decay. High-fluoride toothpaste, fluoride varnish every 3–6 months, and regular dental reviews are essential.
• Limit sugary or sticky snacks; rinse with water after food.
• Watch for white coating or red sore patches in the mouth — oral thrush is more common with dry mouth.

When to see a doctor

• Persistent dryness not explained by medication.
• Dry eyes + dry mouth + joint pain — screen for Sjögren's (rheumatologist).
• Rapidly worsening dental cavities.
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing, unintended weight loss.