Dry Mouth - Signs, symptoms and ways to manage a dry mouth

Patient Information Leaflet

Why is saliva important?

• It keeps your mouth moist.
• It helps you swallow and speak.
• It helps protect your teeth from tooth decay.
• It contains substances that help fight harmful germs.
• It contains minerals that help keep tooth enamel strong.

What can cause a dry mouth?

• Not enough water in the body
• Dehydration means your body does not have enough water.
• This can happen with fever, heavy sweating, vomiting, blood loss or burns.

Medicines

• Many medicines can cause a dry mouth as a side effect.
• These include some medicines for depression, nerve pain, high blood pressure, anxiety, allergies, blocked noses, muscle problems and pain.

Health conditions

• Some health conditions can cause a dry mouth.
• These include diabetes, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome. Sjögren's syndrome can cause a dry mouth and dry eyes.

What might a dry mouth feel or look like?

• Your mouth feels dry.
• Eating, swallowing or speaking may hurt.
• You may have a burning feeling in your mouth.
• You may have less saliva, or saliva that is frothy or stringy.
• Your lips or tongue may be dry or cracked.
• You may get fungal infections in your mouth.

What can I do to help?

• Take small sips of cold water.
• You can suck ice chips if this is safe for you.
• Try a water-based mouth gel or spray.
• A non-foaming toothpaste may help.
• Ask a dentist or pharmacist if you are not sure which toothpaste to use.
• Try to avoid foods that are acidic, spicy, salty or sugary.
• Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
• Spit out the toothpaste but do not rinse with water.
• Cut down on sugary food and drinks.
• Choose water or plain milk instead.
• Have regular dental check-ups.

Can I use community dental services?

• People with high dental needs may be referred to Whittington Health Community Dental Services.
• Please check the service website for the latest information about who can use the service and how to get a referral.

Get more information

• Whittington Health Community Dental Services: https://www.whittington.nhs.uk/default.asp?c=10989

Contact our service

• Call Community Dental Services on 020 3316 8353.