Dry Mouth at Night: The Causes and Management Tips

Dry mouth can be as simple as the salivary glands not producing enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva is key to washing debris from your teeth and re-mineralizing tooth enamel. With too little of it, you may be at risk for tooth decay.

Aside from increasing your risk for cavities, dry mouth can be uncomfortable. If you are experiencing dry mouth at night, some noticeable morning signs are:

• A sticky feeling in your mouth
• Thick or stringy saliva
• Bad breath
• Dry or sore throat
• Cracked or chapped lips
• Mouth sores
• Changed sense of taste
  

The occasional case of dry mouth at night may simply be due to dehydration, but age, medical conditions and habits can also contribute to its symptoms. According to the Dental Hygienists' Association of Canada, several medications can cause dry mouth such as: blood pressure medication, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medication, decongestants, antihistamines, pain relievers and some inhalers. It's also associated with diabetes and the autoimmune disorder Sjogren's syndrome. Cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can change or damage the salivary glands, as can nerve damage to the head and neck area.

Frequent tobacco and alcohol use can lead to xerostomia. Besides putting you at risk for oral cancer, smoking causes changes in saliva production. Alcoholic drinks and tobacco also irritate an already dry mouth and contribute to bad breath.

If your dry mouth is caused by dehydration, treating it could be as simple as making sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day and before going to bed. Xerostomia caused by medication and other health conditions might need more help to stimulate saliva production, such as:

• Sipping water frequently
• Chewing sugar-free gum
• Using a bedroom humidifier
• Sucking on sugar-free lozenges

Make sure to visit your dentist at least twice a year for optimal oral health care. If you are experiencing dry mouth, regular cleanings can help prevent dental decay and gum disease. Your dentist may also recommend a hydrating rinse. No matter the cause of your nighttime dry mouth, you and your dental team can work together to find a solution.