Xerostomia is a disease concerning the salivary glands. It refers to a condition in which the salivary glands are unable to make adequate saliva to keep the mouth moist. Xerostomia causes a dry mouth condition.
A dry mouth and decreased saliva can be a mere nuisance, affect health of gums and teeth and have a major impact on health. It also affects appetite and enjoyment of food. Saliva contains enzymes and is very necessary for the mouth. It limits growth of bacteria, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria and helps wash away food particles. Saliva aids digestion, also makes chewing easy, enhances ability to taste and helps swallowing food. Radiation therapy for cancer, aging issues and certain medications cause side effects like dryness in the mouth thus affecting the salivary glands.
Symptoms of Xerostomia include a feeling of stickiness or dryness in the mouth, grooved or dry tongue, bad breath, stringy and thick saliva, difficulty in swallowing, speaking and chewing, problems while wearing denture, a changed taste sense, hoarseness and sore or dry throat. A dry mouth can also result in lipstick sticking to the teeth. When dry mouth symptoms and signs are persistently noticed, it is necessary to see a doctor immediately.
Diagnosis of Xerostomia is done by the doctor by reviewing medications and over-the-counter medications taken, medical history of the patient and by examining the mouth. In some cases imaging scans of salivary glands, blood tests, or biopsy is also done and sent for testing.
Treatment involves using products for moisturizing the mouth, protecting the teeth from cavities and decay, changing medications that cause dryness in the mouth and using prescription medications for stimulating saliva. To stimulate flow of saliva, sucking sugar free hard candies or sugar free chewing gum are good options. Intake of caffeine should be curtailed as it makes the mouth drier. Mouthwashes containing alcohol must be avoided as they can cause drying of mouth. Chewing or smoking tobacco also must be completely avoided.
