A dry mouth is a nuisance at the best of times, but if it persists you might need to seek treatment.

Persistent dry mouth is also known as xerostomia. It can be very uncomfortable and may affect your ability to eat and speak. While dry mouth broadly speaking is very common (especially at night), when it persists this could be signs of a greater problem that requires treatment.

What is dry mouth?

Dry mouth is a condition where your mouth becomes dry due to a lack of saliva. Dehydration is a major cause, but it may also happen as a side effect of some medications, or as a symptom of another medical condition.

In most cases, dry mouth can be treated at home and will pass very quickly. However, if it lasts for more than a few weeks without a known cause, it’s a good reason to see your dentist or a doctor.

Persistent dry mouth can be a real issue because saliva serves a very important purpose. It provides the necessary lubrication for talking and eating, and contains enzymes that aid in digestion. In addition, saliva can help to remove some debris and bacteria from your teeth and gums, helping reduce the chances of gum disease.

Symptoms of dry mouth

The most obvious symptom of dry mouth is, of course, a dry mouth. But there are more signs to look out for if you aren’t sure this matches your condition:

• Thick or stringy saliva

• Persistent bad breath

• Difficulty chewing and swallowing

• A rough or grooved tongue

• Cavities

• Cracked lips

• Mouth sores.

If your mouth is dry throughout the night, you’re likely to wake with particularly bad breath and your oral health may be affected without you even realising.

Causes of dry mouth

There are plenty of possible causes of dry mouth. These include:

• Use of prescription medications, such as blood pressure drugs, antidepressants and antihistamines

• Some cancer treatments like chemotherapy

• Some medical issues like diabetes

• Pregnancy

• Use of recreational drugs and alcohol.

If you experience dry mouth at night time especially, there’s a chance it is due to nasal congestion. If you’re unable to breathe through your nose, you’re more likely to breathe through your mouth.

Dry mouth may also be a symptom of viruses such as COVID-19.

Treating dry mouth at home

Mild dry mouth is easy to treat at home. Try increasing your daily water intake and reducing salty foods and caffeine in your diet. It can also help to keep water by your bed if you wake up with a dry mouth at night.

You can also chew sugarless gum during the day or before bed, as the chewing action can help to stimulate saliva production. The key word there is ‘sugarless’, as chewing on sugar for long periods of time can be detrimental rather than helpful.

Lastly, you can find over-the-counter products to treat dry mouth. These include artificial saliva, hydrating oral sprays and specially designed dry mouth toothpastes.

When to see a dentist

Dry mouth is not always cause for concern, but persistent xerostomia could be a problem. You should see a dentist about dry mouth if:

• Your dry mouth persists for more than a few weeks.

• Dry mouth symptoms occur following a dental procedure.

• Dry mouth symptoms are especially severe and home treatments have been ineffective.

To book an appointment, call us here at Kowhai Dental on 09 430 0707 or book online.

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