Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is not a disease but a side effect of another condition or circumstance that leaves you with reduced, or no, saliva flow. It can be uncomfortable, resulting in a burning sensation, hoarseness and throat pain, and might cause problems with tasting, chewing, swallowing and speaking.

A healthy mouth needs a good flow of saliva to keep infections and tooth decay at bay, which means a dry mouth could increase the likelihood of problems such as cavities and infections down the track.

If you are experiencing persistent dry mouth, make sure you tell your GP or dentist so they can make sure it’s not due to an underlying condition. 

What causes dry mouth?

• Dehydration can be a factor. “We should be drinking a minimum of a litre and a half but ideally more than two litres a day,” says Bupa Dental’s Dr Greg Thomas. And if you’re sweating, perhaps due to exercise or humidity, you’ll need more water to stay hydrated.
• Some medications, including diuretics, beta blockers, antihistamines and certain antidepressants. That’s a key reason dry mouth is more likely to affect older people – because these medications are more likely to be taken as we age.
• Certain conditions, such as anxiety, depression and diabetes.
• Sjogren’s syndrome. “This is where the salivary glands just stop working,” says Dr Thomas. “It’s an autoimmune disease.”
• Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy (on the head and neck).
• Head and neck surgery. “The salivary glands can get damaged,” explains Dr Thomas. 
• Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose. “You can dry the mouth out,” he says. “That’s often associated with bad breath as well.” 

How to treat dry mouth

If you’re wondering how to get rid of dry mouth, there are a couple of things that might help. If dehydration is the cause, drinking more water or sucking on ice cubes are good DIY fixes. For all causes, stimulating the salivary glands can bring relief – try chewing gum, sucking on sugar-free lollies or eating crunchy foods such as carrots and celery that boost saliva. Talk to your dentist about whether saliva substitutes could help.

Drugs known as sialogogues aim to boost saliva production, but can have adverse side-effects and aren’t suitable for people with asthma, heart disease and glaucoma. Speak to your doctor to find out what’s suitable for you. 

Make sure you avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, fizzy drinks and foods that are acidic (such as lemons), spicy, salty or sugary. And since smoking can worsen dry mouth, it’s a good idea to quit.   

If you are experiencing dry mouth, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day and seeing the dentist regularly so they can identify and treat any problems early on.

Talk to a dentist near you

We’re here to help, ask your dentist if you have any questions about dry mouth or book an appointment today.