What exactly is xerostomia?
Main causes of dry mouth
Identifying the origin is the first step towards finding the solution. The most common causes include:
- Side effects of medication: More than 500 medicines (antihistamines, antidepressants, antihypertensives) list dry mouth as a side effect.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water directly affects fluid production.
- Systemic diseases: Conditions such as diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome are closely linked to this symptom.
- Lifestyle habits: Tobacco and alcohol irritate the mucous membranes and reduce salivary flow.
- Advanced age: Over time, the glands can become less efficient, often worsened by taking multiple medications.
Consequences: why you shouldn’t ignore it
Living with dry mouth has a direct impact on quality of life and the integrity of your teeth:
- Development of tooth decay: Without saliva’s cleansing and neutralising effect, bacterial acids destroy enamel much faster.
- Halitosis (bad breath): Bacteria thrive in dry environments, producing unpleasant-smelling gases.
- Difficulty eating and speaking: Lack of lubrication makes it harder to form a food bolus and to articulate speech.
- Gum inflammation: Increases the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Fungal infections: Oral thrush (oral candidiasis) is common in patients with low saliva production.
Solutions and treatments for xerostomia
Fortunately, there are various strategies to reduce this problem. Treatment will always depend on whether the reduced saliva flow is reversible (caused by an external factor) or irreversible (damage to the glands).
- Mechanical stimulation: Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol helps activate natural saliva production.
- Saliva substitutes: There are specific gels, sprays and mouthwashes that mimic the composition of saliva to keep the mouth hydrated for hours.
- Constant hydration: Sipping small amounts of water frequently is vital.
- Medication review: In some cases, after consulting your GP, the dose of medicines causing dryness can be adjusted.
If you notice your mouth is drier than usual, it’s best to obtain an accurate clinical diagnosis. At our dental clinic in Sabinillas, we analyse your salivary flow and design a personalised prevention plan to prevent xerostomia from damaging your teeth.
Quick day-to-day tips
Avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks, as they are dehydrating.
Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night.
Maintain rigorous oral hygiene with non-abrasive toothpastes and alcohol-free products.
At Quality Dent, we care about your overall wellbeing. Don’t let a lack of saliva dull your smile—visit us and restore freshness in your mouth.
