The Hidden Side Effect of Your Medications: How to Conquer Chronic Dry Mouth

medically induced changes) or systemic health conditions like diabetes and autoimmune diseases.¹⁻⁴

Living with chronic dry mouth decreases your overall quality of life, but it doesn't have to. Here is a breakdown of what is happening in your mouth and how you can find long-lasting relief.

Your symptoms will vary depending on which of your salivary glands are affected:

• The "Parched" Feeling: You will feel completely dried out if you lose the watery volume of saliva normally secreted by the parotid glands (located in the cheeks).

• The "Sticky" Feeling: If the mucinous (thicker) saliva produced by the glands under your chin makes up the bulk of your remaining fluid volume, your mouth may feel sticky or stringy.

Having a dry mouth interferes with both your comfort and normal daily functions. Saliva naturally coats the soft tissues of the mouth (and teeth, too), keeping them moist, pliable, and protected against abrasions caused by eating.

When you lack this lubrication, speaking and eating become incredibly difficult because your tongue and cheeks may stick to your teeth. Furthermore, saliva is essential for breaking down foods for digestion. Without enough of it, chewing and swallowing become harder, which significantly increases the risk of choking for those with chronic dry mouth.⁵,⁶

A severe lack of saliva also makes you highly vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease, as saliva is responsible for washing away plaque and neutralizing harmful acids in the mouth.

There are numerous products on the market⁷,⁸ - often known collectively as artificial saliva or saliva substitutes - designed to relieve discomfort and provide lubrication. Because symptoms are unique to the individual, you may need to try a few different products before finding the one that works best for you.

Many of these products contain soothing lubricants (like glycerin), texture polymers to mimic natural saliva, and flavoring agents. When shopping for OTC relief, perhaps formulas that contain xylitol (a sugar alcohol that reduces decay-causing bacteria)may be more flavorful,  and fluoride may also be considered (for added cavity protection).⁷⁻⁹

If OTC products are not providing enough relief, consult your healthcare provider. In the U.S., there are two FDA-approved medications (pilocarpine and cevimeline) that work systemically by stimulating the nerves to increase saliva flow.

However, because these medications stimulate other glands as well, they can cause side effects like tearing eyes, a runny nose, and increased sweating. You must discuss the risks and benefits with your physician and pharmacist to ensure they don't interfere with your current medications.¹⁰

There is also a newer FDA-approved prescription spray called Aquoral, which provides a lipid-based coating on the oral tissues for up to six hours of relief. It is specifically approved to treat dry mouth caused by medications, Sjögren's syndrome, cancer treatments, and CPAP use.¹¹

If you are living with chronic dry mouth, you must discuss your symptoms with your dentist and healthcare professionals.

Attending at least one dental exam a year is essential to monitor your oral health, obtain product recommendations, and catch any early signs of tooth decay or gum disease associated with a lack of saliva. Proper daily oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings are your best defense in keeping your dry mouth comfortable and your smile healthy.

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9. Medscape. Artificial Saliva. Available at: https://reference.medscape.com/drug/aquoral-oasis-salivasure-caphosol-artificial-saliva-999659#0
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11. Drugs.com. Aquoral. Available at: https://www.drugs.com/search.php?searchterm=Aquoral