What is xerostomia?
Xerostomia is the feeling of having a dry mouth.
What causes xerostomia?
Xerostomia can be caused by a variety of factors. Some include:
- Side effect of medications
- Increasing in age
- radiation therapy
- oral health conditions (ex: Sjogren’s Syndrome)
- nerve damage
- tobacco, alcohol, and/or drug use
Symptoms of xerostomia
You will have a sensation of having a dry mouth. Other symptoms include having stringy saliva, difficulty chewing, bad breath, dry or grooved tongue, taste changes
Treatment options for xerostomia
Treatment options for xerostomia depends on the cause. If medications are causing dry mouth, the dentist may consult your doctor to determine if it changing the medication is possible. Your dentist may recommend salivary stimulants like pilocarpines (ex: Salagen) and products that contain Xylitol.