Dry mouth is a very common symptom of immune disorders and side effect of common medications. The chemicals and disorders cause the salivary glands to stop working properly, not only causing a dry mouth, but also making it easier for sores and infections to develop, interfering with eating and speaking, and increasing the chances of tooth decay. While some people find at home and over the counter remedies more than sufficient, more severe cases may require more extensive treatments.
Change Medications
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are hundreds of medications that cause dry mouth. In some instances, your body simply has to get used to the drug before the salivary glands kick back in. This is not true for everyone -- or every medication -- however, and some people may experience chronic dry mouth as a result. Of course, the easiest treatment option in this case is to see if a different medication will work just as well without decreasing your saliva.
Salivary Stimulants
Unfortunately, changing medications isn’t always an option. Nor will medication changes have any affect if your dry mouth is because of an underlying disorder. In this case, a better option may be finding something that will help you produce more saliva. While chewing gum or letting mints and sugar free candies melt in your mouth can help stimulate saliva production, some products are actually designed to moisturize the oral tissues. These liquid sprays and gels are only a temporary fix, but they can be especially helpful while sleeping. Biotene Oralbalance Moisturizing Gel & Dry Mouth Liquid is one such product. You simply put a little bit of the gel on your tongue and spread it around the mouth; it works for up to four hours, according to the manufacturer. Some mouth washes are also designed to alleviate dry mouth; those without alcohol are generally the best option.
Secretagogue Therapy
Alternatively, your doctor can prescribe medication that stimulates the production of saliva. The two available secretagogues include pilocarpine and cevimeline. However, these are only helpful if you still have enough of the tissue that actually produces saliva.
Preventing Dry Mouth Complications
When you have dry mouth, it is essential to treat the other oral symptoms that can arise as a result. Without the antibacterial compounds found in saliva, you become more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, such as thrush. It is extremely important to keep an eye on your oral health, checking periodically for signs of infection.
Additionally, your teeth are more likely to decay at a faster rate than normal. Avoid sugary foods, which can cause cavities more rapidly, particularly in tandem with dry mouth. Plaque can build up more rapidly, putting you at an increased for gingivitis and periodontal disease. Make sure to follow any special instructions, as well as brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing once daily. Promoting the health of your teeth might include a weekly chlorhexidine rinse or using fluoride trays periodically. If you suspect you have dry mouth or your current treatment methods aren’t working, talk to your doctor or dentist about other measures that might be appropriate for you.
