Dry mouth (xerostomia) resulting from reduced saliva flow is a common problem among older adults. It is caused by certain medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers, diuretics, antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, and many others.
Some problems associated with dry mouth include a constant sore throat, burning sensation, problems speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages. Left untreated, dry mouth can damage your teeth. Without adequate saliva to lubricate and cleanse your mouth, wash away food, and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, extensive decay can occur. Dryness can also irritate soft tissues in the mouth, making them inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Patients using oral inhalers for asthma often develop oral candidiasis, a fungal infection, and are encouraged to rinse their mouths with water after using the inhaler.
Your dentist can recommend various methods to restore moisture. Sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses.
For more information on dry mouth, go to http://www.ada.org/sections/publicResources/pdfs/patient_19.pdf
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Your friendly dentist,
Dr. Sarah Po
May 4, 2010