Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) – Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Remedies
Saliva protects the teeth, neutralises acids, has antibacterial effects, and enables speaking, swallowing, and taste. A persistent lack of saliva increases the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, bad breath, mouth burning, and fungal infections.
Common Causes
- Stress, nervousness, mouth breathing, snoring
- Dehydration, dry indoor air
- Smoking, alcohol, excessive coffee intake
- Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)
- Medications (e.g., blood pressure medications, antidepressants, antihistamines)
- Conditions such as diabetes or Sjögren's syndrome
Typical Symptoms
- Tongue sticks to the palate
- Speech & swallowing difficulties
- Burning sensation in the mouth / on the tongue
- Bad breath
- Altered taste
- Rapidly progressing caries
What helps with dry mouth?
- Stimulate saliva production
Drinking plenty of fluids (water, unsweetened tea) and sugar-free chewing gums significantly stimulate saliva flow:
ApaCare Gum (with 100 % Xylitol) - Moisten & protect mucous membranes
In case of dry mouth, the mucous membrane mainly needs moisture and lubricity. Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture on the mucosal surface:
ApaCare OraLactin Mouthwash with hyaluronic acid. Rinse for 20 seconds 2-3 times daily. - Re-mineralise teeth (prevent cavities)
Insufficient saliva significantly reduces natural re-mineralisation. ApaCare Remineralising Toothpaste (with fluoride + liquid enamel / Hydroxylapatite) - Extra repair for severe saliva deficiency
If dry mouth is pronounced, a high-dose repair paste can additionally help:
ApaCare Repair Tooth Repair Paste best used with ApaCare Repair Tooth Guard
How it works:
- ApaCare Repair is placed into a guard
- the guard sits like a protective film on the teeth
- Contact time at least 20 minutes, or overnight if needed
When to see a doctor?
If dry mouth persists for an extended period or if dry eyes/nose, difficulty swallowing, or swollen salivary glands occur.
FAQ: Dry Mouth
What is dry mouth (Xerostomia)?
Dry mouth occurs due to insufficient saliva. Saliva protects against cavities and inflammation. Its absence increases the risk of disease.
What helps against dry mouth?
Drinking plenty of fluids and sugar-free (Xylitol-) chewing gums stimulate saliva flow. Moisturising oral care (with Hyaluron) supports the mucous membrane. Remineralisation also provides additional protection against cavities.
Why is saliva so important?
Saliva neutralises acids and has antibacterial effects. It supports the remineralisation of tooth enamel. Reduced saliva flow significantly increases the risk of cavities.
