Why is Saliva So Important?
- It helps digest food.
- It protects teeth from decay.
- It prevents infection by controlling bacteria
and fungi in the mouth. - It makes it possible for you to chew and
swallow.
What Causes Dry Mouth?
- More than 400 medicines can cause the salivary glands to make less saliva. (For example: Medicines for high blood pressure and depression often cause dry mouth).
- Some diseases affect the salivary glands. For example, Sjogren’s syndrome and diabetes can all cause dry mouth.
- The salivary glands can be damaged of they are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment.
- Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer can make saliva thicker, causing the mouth
to feel dry.
What Can Be Done?
- See your dentist or physician. He/she might change your medications or adjust the dosage. There are also medicines available that help the salivary glands work better as well as some artificial salivas to keep your mouth wet.
- Sip water or sugarless drinks often
- Avoid drinks with caffeine.
- Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate salivary flow (citrus, cinnamon, or mint are good choices).
- Don't use tobacco or alcohol.
- Switch to an alcohol-free over-the-counter mouthrinse.
- Use a humidifier at night.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a check-up.
