Dry Mouth

What is it?

Xerostomia (dry mouth) is the subjective sensation of oral dryness, which may or may not correlate with objectively reduced salivary flow (hyposalivation). Saliva is essential for oral health — it neutralizes acids, remineralizes teeth, aids digestion, and prevents infection. Medications are the most common cause, with over 500 drugs listed as causing dry mouth including antidepressants, antihistamines, antihypertensives, and anticholinergics. Sjögren syndrome — an autoimmune condition destroying salivary glands — is the most common non-medication cause. Persistent dry mouth significantly increases dental caries and oral infection risk.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Dry mouth persisting for more than a few weeks
• 2Dry mouth with dry eyes, joint pain, and fatigue (possible Sjögren syndrome)
• 3Rapid increase in dental cavities without dietary change
• 4Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or wearing dentures
• 5Oral pain, white patches, or sores (possible candidiasis from dry mouth)
• 6Dry mouth in someone who has had head and neck radiation

What you can do

• ✓Sip water frequently throughout the day — small amounts often rather than large gulps
• ✓Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva flow
• ✓Use a humidifier at night to prevent mouth drying during sleep
• ✓Avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes — they worsen dryness
• ✓Brush with fluoride toothpaste and see a dentist regularly — cavity risk is elevated
• ✓Limit caffeine and alcohol, which reduce salivary output

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions