Having a dry and pasty mouth is very unpleasant. Fortunately, this problem can be prevented or alleviated.

What are the consequences of dry mouth?

Frequent dry mouth can cause considerable discomfort and a number of other inconveniences, such as a pasty mouth or thick tongue, difficulty speaking, the need to cough, chapping at the corners of the mouth, the need to drink more often, altered taste, and bad breath.

When less saliva is produced, it is harder to soften, chew, and swallow food. Because food is harder, it can cause abrasions in the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of canker sores. A lack of saliva also means more bacteria in the mouth and therefore, a greater risk of cavities and gum disease.

Additionally, a dry mouth problem can have psychological and emotional repercussions such as a feeling of embarrassment, anxiety or stress, feeling different or a lack of self-confidence.

Can dry mouth be prevented?

Dry mouth is an unpleasant condition that can harm oral health and digestion. It is usually caused by a number of factors that should be identified. Recognizing the causes will enable you to find solutions and make some lifestyle changes that will help solve the problem.

Certain measures can reduce the risk of dry mouth. Here are some of them.

• Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist.
• Maintain good oral hygiene using toothpaste and mouthwash specially formulated for people with dry mouth. Always choose alcohol-free mouthwash.
• Reduce your caffeine intake, as it can decrease saliva production.
• Stop all tobacco consumption.
• Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Avoid spicy or salty foods and acidic drinks (e.g., citrus juice or soft drinks).
• Take a sugar-free candy or gum when your mouth feels dry.
• Increase the humidity in your bedroom using a humidifier.
• Visit your dentist regularly for routine care.
• If you have diabetes, make sure your blood sugar is under control.
• Speak to your pharmacist if you think a medication you are taking is causing dry mouth. Pharmacists can suggest solutions or alternatives.

What products or treatments can help?

It's not uncommon for the measures described above to be insufficient to stop dry mouth. It can be beneficial to turn to what are known as saliva substitutes. These over-the-counter products come in gel or liquid format (mouthwash or moisturizing spray). They moisten the mouth and relieve dryness-related symptoms. They are widely appreciated for their effective, immediate relief and ease of use.

In some cases, it is possible to use a medication that increases saliva production. This measure is generally considered a last resort. Before considering it, over-the-counter products that stimulate saliva production, such as xylitol, are always available.

Speak to your pharmacist, doctor or dental care professional for additional information about dry mouth and the ways to treat it.