Treatment Options for Excessive Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a condition that makes you feel like you do not have enough saliva. Excessive dry mouth can lead to serious problems and should be treated. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, symptoms include a dry feeling inside the mouth, difficulty chewing, tasting or talking, a dry tongue or throat, cracked lips, mouth sores and a burning feeling inside the mouth. It happens when the salivary glands are not producing enough saliva, which, in turn, can cause problems with tooth decay, food digestion and swallowing, as well as mouth infections. Dry mouth is often caused by medication side effects, diseases such as HIV/AIDs, diabetes and Parkinson’s, cancer treatments and nerve damage, according to the Institute.

Visit your dentist or physician. He can help you determine the cause of your dry mouth, possibly adjust your medication or give you a new drug that will be better for your salivary gland function.

Drink lots of water. This will keep your mouth wet and will aid chewing and swallowing during meals.

Have some sugar-free gum or hard candy. These can help trigger saliva.

Avoid drinking caffeinated beverage—coffee, tea, sodas—and don’t use any tobacco or alcohol. All these things will dry out the mouth.

Use a room vaporizer. Adding moisture to the air can help dry mouth. Also, try breathing through your nose as often as you can, and brushing your teeth thoroughly to protect your teeth.