If you’ve been experiencing the sensation of dry mouth that you just can’t shake, drinking water might not be enough. While dry mouth can sometimes be chalked up to dehydration or strenuous activity, when it becomes persistent and worsens over the course of several weeks, drinking a lot of water may not be enough to cure the painful symptoms. You most likely need medical attention and treatment for dry mouth. 

Dry mouth, a condition that results when salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva, is more common in women than men — but why? In this article, we’ll discuss what dry mouth is, why women are more prone to developing it, and what dry mouth treatments are available.

Dry mouth is a pervasive problem among the elderly, and recently has been affecting the younger population more as well.

Xerostomia, the clinical term for dry mouth, is often associated with the 65+ population, but young people can experience it as well.

Mouth sores like oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions may be indicative of severe cases of dry mouth. Researchers in Denmark set out to learn more.

Mouth sores like oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions may be indicative of severe cases of dry mouth. Researchers in Denmark set out to learn more.

Xerostomia, the self-perception of dry mouth, affects about 20% of the general global population and at least 30% of the population aged 65+. According to a study entitled, "Common Precipitating Factors of Xerostomia in the Elderly," the most common cause of xerostomia in the elderly is medication, typically gastrointestinal, psychotropic, and antihypertensive drugs. But why is this important to know? 

Oral health and xerostomia are intertwined: good oral hygiene may improve the negative impact of dry mouth, while dry mouth may negatively impact oral health.

Dry mouth treatments are critical for people who wear complete dentures, as the effectiveness of the treatments significantly impacts the quality of life.