Your mouth feels dry most of the time. You have tried drinking more water, chewing gum, maybe using a mouthwash — but nothing seems to help. That is xerostomia, and it is more than just an annoyance.
Xerostomia is the medical name for a persistently dry mouth. It is not a disease in itself — it is usually a symptom of something else. The problem is that saliva does a lot more for your mouth than you might realise.
Why is saliva so important?
Saliva keeps your mouth moist, helps you chew and swallow, and plays a key role in digestion. More importantly, it protects your teeth and gums. It neutralises acids, washes away food debris, and helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
When your mouth is dry, those protections are reduced. That means a higher risk of cavities, bad breath, gum irritation, and mouth infections like thrush.
What causes it?
Many things can lead to a dry mouth. The most common causes include certain medications — antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure tablets, and diuretics are frequent culprits. Other causes include dehydration, smoking, breathing through your mouth, and some medical conditions like Sjögren syndrome or diabetes.
As we get older, the likelihood of experiencing dry mouth increases — even if we are otherwise healthy.
What can you do about it?
The first step is to find out what is causing it. Your dentist or doctor can help identify whether it is medication, a health condition, or something else. If it is medication-related, adjusting the dose or switching to a different option may help.
In the meantime, there are things you can do right now. Sip water regularly throughout the day. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco — these all dry out your mouth. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow. Use a fluoride toothpaste and consider a fluoride mouthwash to protect your teeth.
Your dentist may also recommend a saliva substitute or a specific mouthwash designed for dry mouth. Regular dental check-ups become even more important when you have xerostomia, so your dentist can monitor your oral health closely.
Do not ignore a dry mouth. It is not just uncomfortable — it puts your teeth and gums at real risk. Book a visit and get it assessed.
Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com
Meads Village Dental Practice