(Photo by Amanda Mills / CC0 1.0)
Dry mouth, also called xerostomia results from inadequate saliva flow. It’s not a disease, but a symptom of a medical disorder or the side effect from certain medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers, diuretics and many others.
Why is Saliva Important?
Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against tooth decay and maintains the health of the soft and hard tissues of the mouth. Saliva washes away food, debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides disease fighting substances throughout the mouth. It also offers a first line defense against microbial invasion or overgrowth that might lead to disease.
Problems with Dry Mouth
There are some common problems associated with dry mouth that include a constant sore throat, burning sensation, trouble speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages. In some cases, dry mouth can be an indicator of Sjogren’s (pronounced SHOW-grins) syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands, the tear-secreting and salivary glands as well as other organs.
Treatments for Dry Mouth
Without saliva, extensive tooth decay can also occur. Your dentist can recommend various methods and products to restore moisture. Sugar-free gum or candy stimulates saliva production and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses. A humidifier in the bedroom helps moisten the air.
