Dry mouth, sometimes known as xerostomia, is a condition that is characterized by underproduction of saliva in your mouth. As a result, your mouth typically feels dry and parched, and you may also experience bad breath and cracked lips. On its own, dry mouth isnt a life-threatening or severe condition. However, it may be indicative of more significant underlying problems. Even in the absence of underlying health issues, chronic dry mouth can be uncomfortable and may make up for embarrassing or awkward interactions.
Dehydration and insufficient saliva production are the direct causes of dry mouth. Several factors may trigger dehydration as well as inhibit the proper function of the salivary glands. These include:
Xerostomia is treatable and often temporary. There are simple yet practical steps you can take at home to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth. These include sipping on water frequently, chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production, and avoiding excessive intake of alcohol and tobacco.
