Dry mouth risks and management strategies

Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a frequent issue particularly among individuals over the age of 60. While often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, the lack of saliva can lead to significant health problems, including increased tooth decay, fungal infections, burning sensations on the tongue, and bad breath.

Saliva plays a critical role in mastication, swallowing, taste perception, and protecting teeth against bacteria. The most common cause of dry mouth is the use of various medications, such as antihypertensives, diuretics, antidepressants, antihistamines, and drugs for Parkinson's disease. Other contributing factors include poorly controlled diabetes, autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome, radiation therapy to the head and neck, mouth breathing, and dehydration.

Management strategies include sipping water frequently throughout the day, using sugar-free xylitol lozenges or gum to stimulate saliva, and humidifying the bedroom. It is also recommended to avoid tobacco, alcohol, and excessive caffeine. For relief, artificial saliva in spray or gel form and specialized toothpastes are available at pharmacies.