Many people dismiss the sensation of dryness and other symptoms as minor annoyances or a natural part of aging, unaware that a lack of saliva can lead to severe dental decay and a significant decline in quality of life. 

Dry mouth is a common side effect of many prescription overactive bladder medications like oxybutynin, tolterodine, solifenacin, darifenacin, and others.

Saliva: You never notice it until it’s gone. When it exists in abundance, i.e. when your salivary glands function properly, your mouth feels comfortable during conversations, your taste buds enjoy every bite of food, and your teeth are protected from damage.

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is often described in terms of its physical symptoms: a lack of saliva, an increased risk of oral disease, a sore, burning throat, difficulty swallowing and speaking, etc. But in addition to xerostomia’s physical challenges, there is an emotional toll that many people feel as well. Research shows that xerostomia can significantly impact “emotional and social functioning,” including holding back from participating in social activities. 

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, may sound like no big deal, but in actuality, it can have serious physical and emotional repercussions. When there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth, daily functions like eating and talking can become uncomfortable or downright painful. Even sleep can become a nightly challenge as severe thirst causes frequent wake-ups.

What causes dry mouth? That’s the million-dollar question, and for better or worse, there are multiple answers. Dry mouth usually stems from something else, such as treatment for head and neck cancer, medication, autoimmune disease, and more. Polypharmacy, taking multiple medications at the same time, is also a common cause of dry mouth.

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a common and often debilitating condition that affects about 20% of the global population. Sjögren’s syndrome is the autoimmune disorder most commonly associated with dry mouth (and dry eyes), but many other autoimmune conditions can also trigger reduced saliva production.

If you wear dentures and struggle with dry mouth, you know the frustrations all too well: shifting and clicking, sore spots from friction, and constant gum irritation. But you’re not alone; more than 50% of the 65+ population wear dentures, and the risk of dry mouth increases with age. 

Many people undergoing treatment for cancer in the head and neck regions may experience dry mouth as a persistent side effect, leading to oral health challenges and difficulties chewing, swallowing, and speaking. In honor of World Cancer Day on February 4, we’re going to discuss the connection between dry mouth and cancer treatments, as well as dry mouth management options to ease some of life’s daily hurdles.