Xerostomia (pronounced zero stow me ah) is a condition that is characterized by dry mouth.  The saliva (spit) can be thick and ropey and/or decreased in volume.  Saliva is a lubricant that allows us to swallow effectively....like oil in your automobile's engine.  Without it the tissues of the mouth get overly dry and actually stick to themselves.  If you have ever had dry eyes or dry skin, multiply that by ten and you can only imagine how irritating that would be.

Saliva is also a buffering agent....working to maintain a basic pH in the mouth.  Without its presence, the mouth leans towards being more acidic than is healthy for the teeth and the tissues.  Couple this with the acidity of the things that we may choose to eat and drink, and the recipe for decay and tissue ulcerations accelerates.  Without the full effect of saliva as a buffer, the bacteria that naturally live in our mouths proliferate.  Each and every time that these micro-organisms reproduce, they put off an acid.  This acid etches, or weakens, the tooth which leads to decay.

Dry mouth can cause difficulty in speaking.  A person can have an alteration in taste of their food and drink choices since the taste buds are impacted by reduced saliva presence.  A foul odor can develop due to the increase in bacteria and the acidity level.

There are artificial saliva drops and sprays that can be purchased over the counter to supplement.  It is always a good idea to sip, sip, sip on water.  But please make sure that the water has a pH of 8.5-9 (basic).  Check with your city water department to learn the pH of tap water.  If you are a bottled water fan, check to make sure that you know the pH.  Many bottled waters are acidic in nature.  This knowledge of water pH is for all, not just those who suffer with xerostomia.

Using a humidifier where you sleep or work can add moisture to the air and, upon inhalation, can be helpful in increasing the moisture content in your body tissues.  Caffeine has a drying effect.  So deciding to reduce or eliminate caffeine from your diet can greatly help the situation.  Keeping the lips protected with a non-petroleum based balm is another step towards relief. 

For many people, their prescription medication is the cause of their xerostomia.  Check with your prescribing physician and pharmacist for alternative medications that are not as drying.  Or possibly changing your dosage slightly may help.  Combinations of prescription meds can also trigger symptoms.

Understanding your options is empowering!  Ask your dental, dental hygienist, or dental assistant if you ever have a question concerning oral health.  We are here for you.