Dry Mouth

What causes dry mouth?

Many common medications reduce saliva, including some for blood pressure, depression, anxiety, allergies, and pain. Conditions such as diabetes and Sjögren's syndrome, and radiation or chemotherapy for cancer, can also affect the salivary glands. Breathing through the mouth during sleep, dehydration, and tobacco use can add to the dryness.

Why does dry mouth matter for your teeth?

Saliva washes away food, neutralizes acid, and helps repair early damage to enamel. With less saliva, cavities can form more quickly, especially near the gumline and around fillings. Dry mouth can also make dentures less comfortable and affect taste, swallowing, and speech.

How does Dr. Lee help?

Dr. Lee examines your teeth and gums for early signs of decay and reviews your medications and health history to identify likely causes. She recommends a schedule of exams and cleanings that keeps your teeth protected. When a medication may be the cause, she suggests asking your physician about alternatives before making any change.

What helps relieve dry mouth?

• Sipping water through the day, especially with meals
• Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free lozenges to encourage saliva
• Using saliva substitutes or moisturizing rinses
• Using a humidifier at night
• Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, which can dry the mouth

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth every day help protect the teeth while saliva is reduced.

When should you schedule an evaluation?

Schedule an evaluation if your mouth feels dry most of the time, or if you notice new cavities, a burning feeling, or difficulty wearing dentures. Dr. Lee will evaluate your teeth and gums and work with you on a plan to protect them.