Xerostomia (Dry Mouth): What It Is and How to Tackle It

Ever feel like you can’t swallow, your tongue sticks to the roof of your mouth, or you keep reaching for water? That’s xerostomia, the medical term for dry mouth. It’s more than just an annoyance – it can mess with your taste, make talking hard, and increase the risk of cavities. The good news? Most of the time you can control it with a few simple habits and the right products.

What causes xerostomia?

Dry mouth shows up when your salivary glands don’t make enough fluid. A handful of everyday factors are usually to blame:

Medications. Over 400 drugs list dry mouth as a side effect. Antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure pills, and even common pain relievers can slow down saliva production.

Health conditions. Diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and certain infections can shrink or damage the glands.

Dehydration. Not drinking enough water, especially after intense workouts or in hot weather, leaves your mouth parched.

Lifestyle habits. Smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol all dry out the mouth. Even breathing through your mouth while you sleep can dry the tissues overnight.

Treatment side effects. Radiation therapy for head and neck cancers often hits the salivary glands hard, causing long‑term xerostomia.

Sometimes a combo of these triggers is at work. If you’ve started a new prescription or notice dry mouth after a health change, it’s worth a quick chat with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to manage and treat dry mouth

Here are practical steps you can take right now to boost moisture and protect your teeth.

Stay hydrated. Sip water throughout the day instead of guzzling it all at once. Keep a reusable bottle handy and aim for at least 8 glasses of fluid daily, more if you’re active.

Chew sugar‑free gum or suck on sugar‑free lozenges. The act of chewing stimulates saliva flow. Look for products with xylitol; they also help fight cavities.

Use saliva substitutes. Over‑the‑counter sprays, gels, or rinses (like Biotène) coat the mouth and provide short‑term relief. They’re especially handy before bed.

Adjust your meds. If a prescription is the culprit, ask your healthcare provider if a lower dose or an alternative drug is possible. Never stop a medication on your own.

Cut back on dry‑inducing habits. Swap cigarettes for nicotine patches, limit alcohol, and try nasal strips if you breathe through your mouth at night.

Mind your diet. Avoid overly salty, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate a dry mouth. Incorporate moisture‑rich foods like soups, stews, and watery fruits (watermelon, cucumber).

Keep up with dental care. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and schedule regular cleanings. Let your dentist know you have xerostomia so they can suggest extra fluoride treatments or protective rinses.

For severe cases—especially after radiation therapy—your doctor might prescribe medication that boosts saliva, such as pilocarpine or cevimeline. These aren’t first‑line tools, but they can make a big difference when other methods fall short.

Bottom line: Xerostomia isn’t something you have to live with. By spotting the triggers, staying hydrated, and using a few targeted products, you can keep your mouth comfortable and healthy. If symptoms linger despite these tweaks, schedule a check‑up. A quick professional look can rule out underlying conditions and get you on the right treatment path.