I need help with a dry mouth

Find out what causes a dry mouth and how you can fix it

A dry mouth can be uncomfortable and concerning. If it’s persistent, it might be the sign of a more serious condition.

How do I know if I have a dry mouth?

If you have a dry mouth (Xerostomia), you’ll notice that the inside of your mouth often feels dry and sticky. The lack of saliva might make it hard to chew, swallow, or speak, and you may feel a burning sensation in your mouth and throat. A dry mouth can also lead to chapped lips, bad breath, mouth ulcers, tooth decay, and a rough tongue.

Why do I have a dry mouth?

It’s quite normal to wake up with a dry mouth, especially if you sleep with your mouth open. At night, you naturally produce less saliva. But if it persists all day, it’s important to find out why. You might have a dry mouth if you are dehydrated from not drinking enough water, or the air is very dry. Other causes include the side effects of prescription medication, disorders like diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome, and recreational drug and alcohol use. Sleeping with an open mouth might indicate that you have blocked sinuses.

What treatments are available for a dry mouth?

It’s important to keep on top of your oral health if you have a dry mouth.

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Common questions about a dry mouth

  • Not all causes of a dry mouth are serious. It might just mean that you’re not drinking enough water, or that you have an allergy that blocks your nose at night. But it can be a sign of an underlying condition, and left untreated it can cause secondary problems, so it’s a good idea to get it checked by your dentist or GP.

  • Depending on the cause of your dry mouth, you may just need to make a few lifestyle changes. If your dry mouth is persistent, you might benefit from medication to help with saliva production. If your dry mouth is caused by a medical condition, you may need to see your GP too.

  • There are many things you can do at home to relieve your dry mouth. Drink more water and fewer caffeinated or sugary drinks. Reduce your salt intake because salt is dehydrating. You could try chewing gum to stimulate your saliva – but make sure it is sugar free! You can also get products like mouth sprays and toothpaste that are made specifically to treat a dry mouth.

  • If your dry mouth has lasted for more than a couple of weeks, began after a recent dental procedure, or is not responding to home treatments, you should make an appointment with your dentist. We will refer you to your GP if necessary.

  • Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy by neutralising the carbohydrates placed into the mouth. Saliva washes food particles away from your teeth, preventing bacteria from forming and creating acid which attacks your enamel. It even helps to repair minor tooth damage by bathing your teeth in vital minerals like calcium and phosphate.

  • The cost of treating a dry mouth depends on the underlying cause. You might just need to drink more water or cut down on salty foods. If the cause is more serious, you will need to see your dentist or GP, who will discuss treatment options with you and let you know how much it will cost.