Dry Mouth Causes and Fixes
Dry mouth is more than uncomfortable. Without saliva, cavities accelerate fast.
Why saliva matters
Saliva neutralizes acid, washes away food, and delivers minerals that repair early enamel damage. Without it, decay rates rise sharply.
Common causes
Hundreds of medications list dry mouth as a side effect, including antihistamines, antidepressants and blood pressure drugs. Aging, diabetes and radiation therapy also contribute.
What helps
Sip water throughout the day, chew xylitol gum to stimulate flow, use a saliva substitute, and run a humidifier at night.
Extra protection
Patients with chronic dry mouth often benefit from prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste and more frequent cleanings.
Written by the team at Uptown Dentistry, led by Dr. Nicki Tajalli, DDS, in Uptown Houston. This article is general information, not a substitute for an exam.