What is xereostomia?
Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is an oral condition marked by low salivary production. Without sufficient saliva, your oral health can become compromised – lubrication and digestive enzymes are absent and your mouth can not maintain a healthy pH. This condition leads to an increased susceptibility to microorganisms (which could impact your entire body, in addition to your mouth), cavities, fungal infections, and denture retention problems. Symptoms of xerostomia include a hoarse voice, frequent sipping of water, trouble eating and swallowing, cracked lips, swollen salivary glands, frequent oral yeast infections, and inflamed cheeks, tongue and gums. Although xerostomia is often overlooked or ignored, proper management is essential to prevent further complications.
Your prescription medications may cause xereostomia…
Causes of xerostomia include Sjorgen’s syndrome, radiation to the head and neck, uncontrolled diabetes, nervous system disorders, depression, Sarcoidosis, and HIV, but most commonly as a side effect of medications, as noted among 400 commonly prescribed medications. Currently, nearly half of all Americans use at least one prescribed medication, nearly one third use 2-3 medications and approximately ten percent use five or more medications. With greater prescription drug use, the occurrence of xerostomia is increasing. Such medications include drugs for cardiac conditions (alpha, beta, and calcium channel blockers, diuretics), anti-depressants, central analgesics, anti-Parkinson’s drugs, anti-allergy meds, and antacids. Often, when a prescription drug does not cause dry mouth when used alone, it may when used in combination with other medications.
Xerostomia can be experienced by anyone, but impacts the elderly most frequently. If not managed properly, dry mouth can lead to tooth loss, a poorer diet, and a decreased overall health. Treatment for xerostomia includes good home oral hygiene and regular recalls to your dentist. Stimulation of salivary flow with rinses, lozenges, and gels can also be used, and alcohol mouth rinses should be avoided.