Everyone hates those pesky sore throats you develop during the cold season. But what if that sore throat starts to come with other, odd symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing or increased thirst? These are just a few symptoms of dry mouth, which can lead to multiple future complications. Understanding dry mouth is essential to avoid long-term health problems.

Introduction to Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

What is Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition where there is a reduced flow of saliva, leading to a feeling of dryness in the mouth and throat. Saliva plays an essential role in maintaining oral health by keeping the mouth moist, aiding in digestion, and preventing infections.

Dry mouth can lead to various complications, such as difficulty swallowing, speaking, or eating. It can also increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Addressing dry mouth is crucial to avoid these long-term oral health problems.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

• Persistent dry or sticky feeling in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking
• Thick, stringy saliva
• Bad breath
• Sore throat or hoarseness
• Increased thirst
• Cracked lips and mouth sores

Prevalence

Dry mouth affects one in five people, and older adults are more prone to this condition due to age-related factors and medications. It is essential to manage dry mouth early to prevent further complications, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can result from several different factors, including lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and medications. Here are the most common causes:

Medication Side Effects

Over 1,800 medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, list dry mouth as a side effect. Common types of medications that can cause dry mouth include antihistamines, GLP-1 medications, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and painkillers. View a full list of medications with dry mouth side effects here.

Medications like these may affect the salivary glands, reducing the amount of saliva they produce.

Age

As people age, their bodies undergo various changes (for better or for worse). Many of these changes can affect the production of saliva. Older adults are more likely to take medications that contribute to dry mouth.

Age-related conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome, cancer treatments (chemotherapy or radiation), and diabetes are also common causes of dry mouth in older individuals.

Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, can lead to dry mouth. Increased blood production, gestational diabetes, and dehydration may cause dry mouth symptoms.

Dry mouth can also be a result of oral thrush, a common issue during pregnancy, or due to increased metabolism.

Mouth Breathing (CPAP Machines & Sleep Apnea)

Mouth breathing, whether due to sleep apnea, nasal congestion, or using a CPAP machine, can lead to dry mouth. 

CPAP machines are designed to keep the airways open, but this air can dry out the mouth and throat. This is particularly common in individuals who sleep with their mouth open, exacerbating dry mouth symptoms.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions and diseases can contribute to chronic dry mouth, including…

• Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation can damage the salivary glands, reducing saliva production. This is common in individuals undergoing treatment for head or neck cancers. Although some may regain partial salivary production after the first year of their treatment, many will continue to suffer from long-term dry mouth symptoms.
• Sjögren’s Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the tear and salivary glands. Dry mouth is one of the more prominent symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome. It’s more common in women and can be a long-term condition.
• Diabetes: Diabetics have an increased risk of dehydration due to higher blood glucose levels. While thirst may be the first indicator people recognize, dry mouth and dry eyes are also a main symptom of dehydration. Learn how to treat dry mouth from diabetes here.
• Parkinson’s Disease: Some people with Parkinson's disease experience dry mouth because they swallow repeatedly, which uses up the saliva that is needed to be comfortable. Dry mouth may also be caused by some of the medications for Parkinson's disease, particularly anticholinergic medications.
• Scleroderma: A condition where the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue, leading to thickening and scarring of the skin and internal organs, including the salivary glands. Learn more about treating Scleroderma related dry mouth here.
• Burning Mouth Syndrome: A chronic disorder, Burning Mouth Syndrome is symptomized by a recurrent burning sensation in the mouth. Learn how to treat dry mouth symptoms from Burning Mouth Syndrome here. 

Other Contributing Factors

Substances like alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis can reduce saliva production, contributing to dry mouth. Marijuana, in particular, is known to cause "cotton mouth" due to its cannabinoids blocking saliva flow.

How to Find Relief

If you are suffering from this dreaded dry mouth, OraCoat offers a wide range of products specifically designed to provide relief from dry mouth symptoms. These products work by stimulating saliva production and keeping the mouth moisturized for extended periods. 

OraCoat XyliMelts

OraCoat XyliMelts are oral-adhering discs that are designed to relieve persistent dry mouth. They stick to your gums or teeth, providing long-lasting relief. Ideal for use during the day or night, they help alleviate dryness, improve hydration, and fight discomfort caused by dry mouth.

The key ingredient is Xylitol, a natural sweetener that stimulates saliva flow and provides moisture to the mouth. XyliMelts last for hours, both moisturizing the mouth and leaving it feeling fresh. Available in flavors like mint, cinnamon, and berry smoothie, with options for sensitive users.

OraCoat XyliGum

A sugar-free gum made with Xylitol that helps relieve dry mouth symptoms. This option is great for maintaining mouth moisture throughout the day while promoting fresh breath. XyliGum also helps fight tooth decay and supports healthy gums by preventing harmful bacteria from adhering to teeth and gums.

XyliGum is sugar-free, aspartame-free, gluten-free and vegan.

OraCoat XyliGel

OraCoat XyliGel is a gel that stimulates saliva production, neutralizes odors, and promotes oral health. XyliGel is effective for dry mouth relief and lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The gel is pH balanced, ensuring it won’t harm tooth enamel and can be used both day and night for continuous dry mouth relief.

It's sugar-free, ensuring your oral health is in safe hands. XyliGel combines sweet tasting xylitol and invigorating citrus flavor makes it a great-tasting experience, stimulating saliva flow and leaving your breath smelling fresh.

Alternative Home Remedies

Lifestyle changes, like increased water intake, chewing sugar-free gum, and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine can help reduce dry mouth symptoms.

In addition to small lifestyle changes, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brushing, flossing, and using fluoride toothpaste is crucial in preventing oral health issues related to dry mouth, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Lastly, DIY home remedies can help alleviate dryness, such as using a humidifier during sleep, sipping water, or sucking on ice chips.

Conclusion

Dry mouth can be extremely uncomfortable and even lead to further complications, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Understanding the causes and effective remedies for dry mouth is essential in maintaining good oral hygiene and alleviating discomfort.

If your dry mouth persists or worsens, or if you experience concerning symptoms like bad breath, tooth decay, or difficulty swallowing, it’s essential to see a healthcare professional.