Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a condition that results from a decreased volume of saliva in the mouth.
Saliva helps to moisten and cleanse our mouth and digest food.
Saliva prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth.
Dry mouth increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay and mouth infection.
Side effect of medications
Medication used to treat Pain, Allergy, Cold, Diarrhea, Hypertention, Asthma, Obesity, Anxiety, Depression.
Side effect of certain diseases
Diabetis, Hypertention, Anaemia, Rheumatoidarthritis, Stroke, HIV, Sjogren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease.
Side effect of certain medical treatments
Like radiation and chemotherapy can damage the salivary gland and reduce the salivary flow.
Dehydration due to vomiting, excessive sweating, diarrhea, fever and burns.
Smoking and tobacco chewing reduce salivary flow.
✓ A sticky saliva, dry feeling in the mouth.
✓ Sores in the mouth, split skin at the corner of the mouth and lips.
✓ Problems speaking, eating and swallowing.
✓ Bad breath.
✓ Hoarseness, dry nasal passage, sore throat.
✓ Recurrent mouth infection, tooth decay and gum disease.
If dry mouth is caused by certain medication,talk to your doctor .your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to a different drug
Medicated oral rinse or medication can help improve salivary flow.
Simple measures to keep your mouth moist:
✓ Increasing fluid intake.
✓ Chewing on sugar free gums
✓ Avoid alcohol based mouthwash, caffeine and smoking as it worsens dry mouth.