Dry mouth is an uncomfortable side effect of many medications and a symptom of some disorders, particularly those of the immune system. Essentially, something interferes with the efficiency of the salivary glands. Although there are prescription medications that can encourage spit production, there are a variety of methods to try at home that may reduce the effects of dry mouth.
Stimulating Saliva
The goal of any treatment is to alleviate the symptoms caused by dry mouth. Many over the counter products are extremely successful for some people. One option is to utilize salivary stimulants. Some gums and candies can actually help encourage saliva production. When choosing gums and candies, it is important to remember that many of these products contain a lot of sugar, so most experts recommend choosing sugar-free options to help reduce the risk of cavities and other oral problems that can result from sugar -- particularly given the higher risk of tooth decay from dry mouth. Xylitol is highly suggested, although some people do have adverse gastrointestinal reactions from over-consumption of this sugar alternative. Allow the candy to dissolve slowly in your mouth. Ice chips are another good alternative, as is taking frequent sips of water, not only during the day but throughout each meal to help make swallowing easier.
Over the counter salivary substitutes may also be a successful strategy to treat your dry mouth. They generally come in a liquid, gel, or spray form, and can do a nice job of keeping oral tissue moisturized. There are several brands of mouthwash that are made specifically for those with dry mouth. Opt for alcohol free products.
Minimizing Dryness
Nighttime can be one of the worst periods for developing severe dry mouth. To help make your sleep more comfortable -- and your mouth less sore upon awakening -- try keeping a humidifier running while you sleep. Humidifiers are small, portable devices to which you add water. They then add that water into the air, creating a moisture-filled environment. Humidifiers can be especially useful during the winter, when the air becomes more dry inside, especially when running a heater. Additionally, breathe through your nose as much as possible. If you snore, it may help to get medical treatment to alleviate snoring. Wear lip balm to help keep the lips moisturized and preventing chapping and cracking.
Avoiding Exacerbators
Another essential part of home therapy for dry mouth involves avoiding things that can make your dry mouth worse. Coffee, tea, soda, and other products that contain caffeine may make the problem worse because caffeine is actually a diuretic. This means it encourages your body to get rid of fluid (which is why it makes you urinate more frequently). Tobacco products can also make dry mouth worse, as well as irritate the sensitive tissue. Antihistamines and decongestants, the purpose of which is to dry out extra mucus, can also be problematic.
Additionally, keep an eye on your diet. Sugary foods can increase the risk of cavities in an already sensitive mouth. Foods that have a high acid content or are extremely spicy may be more painful than normal to dry oral tissue. While these methods are effective for many people, some cases of dry mouth are more severe than others. Talk to your doctor about more intensive methods if you are still facing significant trouble because of dry mouth.
