Understanding dry mouth

1 in 5 adults suffer the effects of a dry mouth.

Lack of saliva

The importance of saliva is little understood and therefore often underestimated. When, however, a lack of saliva arises, it becomes more and more clear how important saliva is in keeping the mouth healthy and what influence it has on the quality of life

Causes of dry mouth

There are various known causes for the onset of Dry Mouth (Xerostomia).

Medication is the most common cause. Worldwide more than 1800 commonly prescribed medicines list ‘dry mouth’ as a side effect. The most prescribed families of drugs that have the capacity to induce Dry Mouth are :

• Antihypertensives
• Antihistamines
• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Antiparkinsonians

Chronic diseases that can also lead to persistent complaints of Dry Mouth include :

• Sjögren’s Syndrome
• Diabetes mellitus
• Lupus erythematosus
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Other common causes are :

Radiotherapy or surgery in the head-and neck region
Chemotherapy
Hormonal Changes and Stress

Symptoms of dry mouth

Dry Mouth (xerostomia) can cause the following complaints:

• Problems with chewing, swallowing and talking
• Bad breath
• Cracked mouth corners
• Dry, chapped lips
• Altered taste
• Interrupted sleep due to thirst

Apart from the discomfort and inconvenience Dry Mouth will inevitably lead to a series of dental problems, such as:

• Irritated gums
• Burning feeling of the gums and on the tongue
• Dental plaque accumulation
• Enhanced risk of cavities
• Enhanced risk of dental erosion
• Enhanced risk of inflammation of the gums
• Ill-fitting dentures

Please consult your dentist or physician if the symptoms persist.

Discover tips for managing dry mouth daily

• Avoid dry and sticky food
• Limit the use of coffee because it can cause dryness
• Regularly chew a piece of cucumber, carrot , watermelon or sugar-free chewing gum or lozenges to trigger saliva production
• Sip water, especially when eating
• Add gravies or sauces to your meal to help swallowing your food
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco, including chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes (vape)
• Do not use mouthwashes that contain alcohol
• Breathe through your nose
• An evaporative humidifier can help to increase the humidity in your room, preferably in your bedroom.
• Visit your dentist or dental hygienist regularly

3 SIMPLE STEPS IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE FOR A HEALTHY AND MORE COMFORTABLE MOUTH

STEP 1 – CLEANSING

At least twice daily brush with a mild, non-foaming toothpaste

STEP 2 – RINSING

Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthrinse after brushing and, if desired, at regular intervals during the day for extra freshness and comfort.

STEP 3 – MOISTURIZING

For lubrication and comfort, especially at night, apply moisturizing gel to gums or under dentures.

For convenience and immediate moisturization during the day use a mouth spray directly into the mouth.