Waking up with a dry, sticky mouth or constantly reaching for water during the day? You’re not alone. Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is a common condition, especially for people who take certain medications or are simply getting older. While it might seem like just a minor inconvenience, chronic dry mouth can actually increase your risk for cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to relieve dry mouth at home. And when those strategies aren’t enough, your dentist can help you get things back on track.
Tips for At-Home Care
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
This might seem obvious, but sipping water consistently, not just when you’re thirsty, is one of the best ways to keep your mouth moist. Keeping a refillable water bottle nearby can remind you to take small sips throughout the day. Avoid sugary sodas, caffeine, and alcohol, which can actually dry your mouth out instead of hydrating it.
Use Sugar-Free Gum or Lozenges
Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free lozenges stimulates saliva production. Look for products that contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that not only encourages saliva flow but also helps protect your teeth against decay. Just be sure not to overdo it!
Adjust Your Diet
Certain foods can either trigger or ease dry mouth. Try to avoid salty, acidic, or spicy foods, which can irritate already dry tissues. Instead, focus on crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots that naturally stimulate saliva. Foods with a higher water content, like cucumbers and melons, can also help.
Breathe Through Your Nose
If you tend to breathe through your mouth, it can make dry mouth worse. Nasal breathing helps preserve moisture, so if you struggle with congestion, talk to your doctor about ways to clear your nasal passages. For nighttime relief, nasal strips or sleeping on your side might help promote better airflow.
Use a Humidifier While You Sleep
If you live in a dry climate or use indoor heating during colder months, your sleeping environment might be drying out your mouth. Running a humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture to the air and help reduce nighttime dryness.
Try Over-the-Counter Saliva Substitutes
There are plenty of mouth sprays, gels, and rinses available that are designed to temporarily relieve dry mouth. While they won’t solve the root cause, they can be a great tool to keep on hand, especially when you’re on the go or in social situations where dry mouth becomes more noticeable.
Avoid Alcohol, Tobacco, and Harsh Mouthwashes
Alcohol and tobacco are major culprits when it comes to dry mouth, and they can worsen symptoms if used regularly. If you use mouthwash, opt for one that’s alcohol-free, as many traditional formulas can further dry out your mouth. Look for rinses specifically labeled for dry mouth or sensitive mouths.
When to See a Dentist About Dry Mouth
If you’ve tried multiple remedies and still struggle with dryness, it might be time to see a professional. Persistent dry mouth can be a sign of an underlying issue like medication side effects, autoimmune disorders, or salivary gland dysfunction.
You should schedule a visit if you’re experiencing:
- Constant dryness despite drinking water
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Frequent bad breath or mouth sores
- An uptick in cavities or gum inflammation
- Gum disease symptoms, such as bad breath or discoloration
Dr. Martin can help identify the cause and offer solutions, from in-office treatments to prescription rinses or gum disease treatment.
Find Relief and Protect Your Smile
Dry mouth doesn’t have to be something you just live with. A few small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in your comfort and your oral health. And if home remedies aren’t cutting it, Dr. James Martin in Lafayette, CO, is here to help.
Schedule a consultation today and get the relief you deserve—because your smile and your comfort matter.
