Causes Of Dry Mouth

Lily

B.R
Staff member
Dry Mouth is a condition wherein there is not enough saliva in you mouth to keep it wet. The phenomenon is quite common and happens to everybody once in a while; especially during the time where they are upset, nervous, under stress or taking certain medications. However, if you are suffering from the problem all the time, you are advised to see a health practitioner as it might lead to serious health problem later. To be able to cope with the problem, knowing the causes and remedies for dry mouth are important. So, read on.

Dry mouth: Why?

Dry mouth can occur due to a number of causes, such as:

  • Biological aging
Aging is a contributing factor, but does not compulsorily causes it


  • Systemic diseases such as:
- Rheumatoid conditions (example: Sjogren's Syndrome)
- Dysfunctional immune system (example: AIDS)
- Hormonal disorders (example: Diabetes)
- Neurological disorders (example: Parkinson's disease)

  • Decreased chewing ability, which leads to liquid diet and soft food choice, decreasing the flow of saliva
  • Surgical removal of salivary glands
  • Radiation therapy, as radiation may lead to permanent damage to the salivary glands.
  • Drugs or medications can also cause dry mouth as a side effect. The common drugs causing it are:
- Decongestants
- Diuretics
- Antihypertensive
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines

Home Remedies for Dry Mouth

In case you are suffering from dry mouth, consistently, for a considerable period of time, you should consult a doctor. However, for instant relief you can try the home remedies and treatments given below

  • Drink water frequently
  • Keep water or fluids at bedside at night
  • Chew sugarless gum
  • Avoid foods high in sugar, tobacco and alcohol
  • Adjust the humidity of air in your home
  • Use a saliva substitute. It is a commercial product which wets the mouth like saliva does and can be easily found in most pharmacies
  • Establish a good plaque control program, since heavy plaque accumulations occur with oral dryness
  • Use fluoride toothpaste, rinse, or gel
 
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