Dry mouth

Saliva plays a fundamental role in maintaining the physiological conditions of the tissues of the oral cavity. When salivary flow decreases (hyposalivation) or when the saliva shows some change in its components, the patient may report a subjective sensation of dry mouth, known as xerostomia.

Among the causes of this change are oncological therapy of the head and neck, autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome, systemic diseases such as diabetes or the continuous use of medication. Other less relevant ones are dehydration, mouth breathing and smoking and drinking habits.

Of the causes mentioned, the most common is that resulting from the use of medicines such as antidepressants, antihypertensives, antihistamines, antiparkinsonian drugs and diuretics.

The most common complaints of the patient with xerostomia are the sensation of dryness and burning in the mouth and throat, difficulty chewing and swallowing, the appearance of lesions resulting from the use of dentures and an increase in the rate of cavities.

Treatment should therefore be directed, where possible, at adjusting the dose of the xerogenic medicines taken for the underlying disease, at promoting hydration and at adopting measures to control the symptoms. Symptomatic treatment aims to increase the production of saliva by mechanical or pharmacological stimulation, or else by using saliva substitutes when stimulation is not possible.

It is important to consult your dentist to find out what methods you should use to prevent the complications that could come to compromise your quality of life.