If you suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia), you are at an increased risk of developing cavities; less saliva leads to a higher risk of oral infection, altered sense of taste, difficulty swallowing, and a decreased quality of life. Women and the elderly report a higher prevalence of dry mouth overall. There are various causes for dry mouth, a few of which include: multiple sclerosis, alcoholic liver disease, radiation therapy, Sjogren’s disease, and Parkinson’s.
Xerostomia is a common side effect with many medications as well; be wary of the potential for dry mouth with the following:
- Anticholinergics
- Antidepressants/SSRIs (e.g. Prozac (Fluoxetine), Zoloft (Sertraline))
- Antihistamines/allergy medications (e.g. diphenhydramine)
- Medications treating high blood pressure (e.g. diuretics, beta-adrenergic blockers, ACE inhibitors)
- Pain medicine (e.g. opioids)
Patients who have a high risk of cavities, especially from medications such as antidepressants, should consult with their dentist to be placed on prescription toothpaste.
Managing dry mouth is critical; not only will it improve your oral health, but also your quality of life. The following are some treatment options to deal with dry mouth:
- Use an over-the-counter saliva substitute such as therabreath (the spilanthes ingredient stimulates saliva flow), biotene, xerostom, and oramoist
- Chew sugar-free gum
- Suck on sugar-free candy
- Drink plenty of water to maintain a moist mouth
- Use a humidifier in your room
- Use fluoride toothpaste and rinses
- Avoid tobacco products
- Breathe through your nose as much as possible instead of your mouth
- Use prescription medications such as Pilocarpine (Salagen) or Cevimeline (Evoxac)
- Avoid mouthwashes or mouth rinses containing alcohol or peroxide
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or acidic beverages
- Avoid dry, salty, and high sugar foods such as: dried fruit, crackers, toast, bananas, and cookies