How to Cure Dry Mouth?

Saliva is an important component of the mouth. It contains enzymes that attack bacterial growth in the mouth and thus prevents tooth decay. Plaques and food particles left in the mouth are also washed away by it. It neutralizes the damaging acids in our mouth and enhances the ability to taste food.

Dry mouth or xerostomia is a condition that is caused due to a decreased function of the glands that produce saliva.

Causes of dry mouth:

• Certain illnesses, like diabetes, depression etc
• Hormonal disorders
• Dysfunctional immune system, e.g. AIDS
• Surgical removal of salivary glands
• Radiation and chemotherapies
• Age factor
• Dehydration

Symptoms of dry mouth:

• Sticky feeling in the mouth
• Frequent thirst
• Cracks at the corners of the mouth
• Cracked lips
• Difficulty in chewing and swallowing
• Dry or red tongue

• Bad breath
• Mouth sores
• Burning feeling in the mouth
• Thick saliva
• Scratchy tongue
• Plaque, tooth decay and gum disease

Tips to cure dry mouth:

• Sip water or other sugar-free juices frequently.
• Avoid foods and drinks with high sugar contents. Also, avoid very spicy or salty foods as they may cause pain in a dry mouth.
• Chewing some sugarless gum or sucking on a piece of sugar-free candy will also help. This helps to stimulate saliva production and soothe dry mouth.
• Alcohol and tobacco should also be avoided.
• You can use artificial saliva sprays and rinses available at drug stores.
• Use toothpaste with fluoride in it, as lack of saliva can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Also, brush and floss regularly.

• Fruits like apples, pears, cherries and peaches are also very effective in stimulating saliva. Cut them in small pieces and suck them to enhance saliva flow in the mouth.
• Crush up some ice cubes and suck them. They will melt at a slow pace and keep your mouth moist.
• Add a few drops of lemon juice in a cup of water. Drink this water several times in a day.
• Rinse your mouth with a bit of lemon juice and glycerin to stimulate the flow of saliva.
• Vitamin E oil is also very effective in keeping your mouth moist. Rub this oil on your tongue and teeth before going to bed at night.
• Caffeine based beverages should be avoided as they cause dehydration, which can lead to dryness.
• Drink a glass of warm milk with honey before going to bed at night.

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