Overview
Saliva protects teeth by washing away food, buffering acids, and supporting enamel repair. Dry mouth may be caused by medicines, dehydration, mouth breathing, diabetes, radiation therapy, tobacco, or salivary gland problems.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Dry mouth is a risk factor for fast-growing cavities.
- ✓Many common medicines can reduce saliva.
- ✓Older adults and people with diabetes need extra monitoring.
- ✓Persistent dryness deserves a dental review, not just more mints.
What You Can Do At Home
- 1Sip water often and avoid frequent sugary drinks.
- 2Use sugar-free gum or lozenges if safe for you.
- 3Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and mouthwashes that burn.
- 4Ask about fluoride gels, rinses, or saliva substitutes.
When To Book A Dentist
- !Dryness lasts more than two weeks.
- !You are getting new cavities quickly.
- !There are white patches, burning, sores, or denture pain.
- !You recently started medicines and noticed mouth dryness.