Oral Surgery Leaflet: Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Leaflet Details

Patient Information

Introduction

Dry mouth (xerostomia) happens when your mouth does not produce enough saliva. It can make eating, speaking and sleeping uncomfortable and can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum problems. It is common and often manageable with simple changes and treatments.

Common Causes

• Not drinking enough fluids (dehydration)
   
• Breathing through an open mouth, for example due to a blocked nose
   
• Many commonly prescribed medicines, including antihistamines, blood pressure tablets, some antidepressants and painkillers
   
• Tobacco use or heavy alcohol intake
   
• Cancer treatments such as radiotherapy to the head and neck or chemotherapy
   
• Infections such as oral thrush
   
• Medical conditions such as diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome

Dry mouth becomes more common with age, as people often take more medications and may develop conditions that reduce saliva production.

Symptoms

• Feeling thirsty
   
• A sticky, rough or dry tongue
   
• Cracked lips or soreness at the corners of the mouth
   
• A burning sensation in the mouth
   
• Altered or reduced taste, Food tasting bland
   
• Difficulty speaking, chewing or swallowing
   
• A dry mouth on waking in the morning

How is Dry Mouth confirmed

If there is a reduced amount of saliva, a dentist or doctor may diagnose dry mouth by simple examination. A salivary flow test, known as sialometry, can also confirm that you have dry mouth and this takes a few minutes to complete. Other investigations including blood tests and biopsy may be indicated to exclude underlying medical conditions

Managing Dry Mouth at Home

Keeping your mouth moist is key, and simple measures often help.

Many people manage dry mouth successfully with simple measures at home. With the right care and support, symptoms can usually be improved.

Things to Avoid

• Smoking or tobacco use
   
• Alcohol
   
• Caffeine such as tea and coffee
   
• Very salty, spicy or acidic foods
   
• Sleeping with dentures in

Do not stop any prescribed medicines suddenly. If you think a medication may be causing dry mouth, speak to your GP about possible alternatives.

Diet Tips

• Choose soft, moist foods such as soups, casseroles, yoghurt and mashed fruit
   
• Add sauces or gravies to meals
   
• Sip water or milk during meals
   
• Use sugar-free boiled sweets or gum between meals to stimulate saliva
   
• Avoid sticky sweets or very dry foods like crackers
   
• Take medicines with plenty of water or alongside food

Dental Care

Good oral hygiene is especially important if you have dry mouth.

• Brush gently twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
   
• Floss or use interdental brushes once a day
   
• Use an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash
   
• Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol or strong acids
   
• Clean dentures every day and remove them at night
   
• Avoid frequent sugary snacks and drinks
   
• Attend regular dental check-ups so problems can be detected early
   
• Use a soft toothbrush and take extra care if your mouth feels sensitive.

When to Seek Help

See your GP or dentist if:

• Dry mouth makes it difficult to eat, speak or swallow
   
• Symptoms persist for more than 2 to 3 weeks despite home measures
   
• You develop sore, red or bleeding gums
   
• You notice cracked skin at the corners of your mouth or white patches inside the mouth
   
• Food tastes unusual or you lose your sense of taste
   
• You think a medicine may be the cause
   
• You have very dry eyes or excessive thirst

Pharmacist Advice

Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter products to help relieve dry mouth, including saliva substitutes such as sprays, gels or lozenges. Many are sugar-free and designed to lubricate and protect the mouth. Always check product labels and ask for advice if unsure.

Products That Can Help

• Saliva sprays
   
• Moisturising gels or pastes
   
• Sugar-free lozenges or pastilles
   
• Alcohol-free, sugar-free mouth rinses
   
• Sugar-free chewing gum containing xylitol
   
• Lip balm or oral moisturising gels
   
• Water-based toothpaste designed for dry mouth
   
• A bedroom humidifier

In severe cases, a GP may consider prescription medication to stimulate saliva, but this is usually only tried when other treatments have not worked.

REASSURANCE: Many people manage dry mouth with simple measures at home

For further information, please visit the following link:
https://bisom.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Dry-Mouth-PIL.pdf

This leaflet provides general information only. It does not replace a discussion with your surgeon. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss alternatives before giving consent.