Dry Mouth Causes, Signs And Symptoms

Dry mouth occurs when there is not enough saliva production in the mouth. Salivary production can decrease due to medications, cancer or other pathology, alcohol-containing mouth rinses, medical conditions, illegal drugs or medical treatments such as radiation therapy. Not only is dry mouth uncomfortable, it can also make teeth more susceptible to decay due to lack of washing by saliva.  

Causes

What causes dry mouth? Dry mouth or xerostomia is due to salivary gland shutdown, decreasing the amount of saliva flow inside of your mouth. It can be due to uncontrolled or underlying health conditions, but may also be associated with common everyday prescription medications, nutritional practices and the oral hygiene products that you use. Dry mouth can also appear suddenly, such as with anxiety or nervousness.

Signs And Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of xerostomia are very straightforward:

Dry mouth

Difficulty chewing or swallowing

Oral tissues such as lips and cheeks sticking together

Redness or irritation of the oral tissues

Increase in tooth decay

Gum disease

Oral ulcers

Bad breath or halitosis

Inhibited sense of taste

Dangers And Health Risks

Our body produces saliva to keep the mouth lubricated throughout the day. This allows us to speak properly, chew and swallow our food, and reduce the amount of tooth decay by keeping a constant flow of saliva over the surfaces of the teeth. When we have a decreased amount of saliva in our mouth it can cause problems like raw, sore gums or tongue and an increased level of tooth decay.

Erosion of the teeth and gums may occur due to lack of lubrication in the mouth. A decrease in saliva may also contribute to periodontitis or gum disease, due to the body's inability to protect the areas around the teeth from increased plaque buildup.

Dry mouth can also sometimes be a warning sign for conditions such as:

Cancer

Diabetes

Sjgrens syndrome

Lambert-Eaton syndrome

Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral care, skincare, body care and foot care. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Reviewed By:    

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.