Why Doesn't Dry Mouth Go Away on Its Own?

Dry mouth is a common disorder.

Lack of saliva or dry mouth is a common problem. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, everyone experiences a certain amount of dry mouth and, if there is no underlying cause, it can go away on its own. Normal anxiety, emotional trauma and stress are all common causes of the condition. However, dry mouth that persists over a long period of time can result in a wide variety of dental problems and can indicate a more severe underlying medical disorder. The medical term for dry mouth is xerostomia.

Symptoms

According to WebMD, symptoms of dry mouth include a feeling of dryness in the mouth, bad breath (halitosis), thick saliva, cracked lips, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, taste disturbances, increased plaque, tooth decay and gum disease.

Causes

Causes of dry mouth are numerous and can be difficult to pinpoint. According to Mayo Clinic, common causes include medication, anxiety, stress, aging, cancer therapy, nerve damage and tobacco use. Additionally, many underlying medical conditions (and their treatments) can cause dry mouth, including diabetes, Parkinson's disease, HIV/AIDS, anxiety disorders, depression, Sjogren's syndrome, stroke and Alzheimer's disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dry mouth involves an examination of the oral cavity and a medical history review. Blood tests and imaging scans of the salivary glands can reveal underlying causes and help to determine treatment.

Treatment

Dry mouth as a side effect of medication can be controlled or cured by adjusting dosage or drug substitution. Pilocarpine (Salagen) and Cevimeline (Evoxac) are medications that stimulate saliva production and are effective treatments of dry mouth in many patients, according to WebMD.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Chewing sugar-free gum and sucking on sugar-free candy can stimulate saliva production and help control dry mouth. Other home remedies suggested by doctors at Mayo Clinic include limiting caffeine intake, avoiding sugary or acidic foods, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, rinsing with fluoride mouthwash, quitting smoking, drinking an adequate amount of water, breathing through the nose and using a room humidifier.

References

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Dry Mouth
• WebMD: Treatment for Dry Mouth
• Mayo Clinic: Dry Mouth

Resources

• HealthScout: Dry Mouth