Dry Mouth: When Drinking More Water Isn’t Enough
A sticky, dry mouth is more than an
uncomfortable feeling. Occasional
dry mouth from nervousness or
dehydration goes away with a glass
of water. But if your mouth is often
dry, your tongue is sticking to the
roof of your mouth, and it is difficult
to chew, swallow and talk, you may
have persistent dry mouth, known
as xerostomia.
Dry mouth affects your overall health and well-being. Difficulty
chewing and swallowing makes it a challenge to eat well.
Difficulty talking can be socially embarrassing. Dry mouth can
also cause bad breath, sores in your mouth and on your lips,
cavities, and other oral health problems.
Many things can cause dry mouth. Some medications, especially
cold medicines and medications for high blood pressure,
depression, and anxiety, will leave your mouth feeling dry.
Treatments for cancer and some diseases and chronic conditions
are associated with dry mouth. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking,
can also cause dry mouth.
If you notice that your mouth often feels dry and swallowing
is difficult, ask your oral health care professional for advice.
Schedule routine visits with your dental hygienist to monitor
your health condition and provide regular cleaning (scaling)
and polishing.
For daily comfort, try the following tips:
- Clean your teeth and your mouth twice daily.
- Use an alcohol-free mouth rinse.
- Sip water regularly and drink water with every meal.
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies.
- Use lip lubricants or balm to prevent dry lips and sores.
- Avoid foods and drinks that are known to dry your mouth,
such as caffeine, alcohol, cinnamon-flavoured items, and
spicy and acidic foods.
- Reduce or quit smoking.
Find more information about dry mouth at dentalhygienecanada.ca/seniors.