Dry mouth: causes, symptoms and what to do

What is dry mouth?

NIDCR defines dry mouth as not having enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. The ADA calls it xerostomia, and Cleveland Clinic calls the underlying condition hyposalivation, where the salivary glands make too little saliva. It is a symptom of another cause, not a disease in itself.

Does high blood pressure cause dry mouth?

NIDCR does not discuss blood pressure directly but says medicines for high blood pressure often cause dry mouth. Cleveland Clinic lists high blood pressure among medical conditions linked with dry mouth and certain beta-blockers among the medicines. If you take blood pressure medicine and your mouth is dry, ask your doctor, and do not stop the medicine on your own.

Does coffee cause dry mouth?

NIDCR says to limit or avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and some sodas, since caffeine can dry out the mouth and contribute to dehydration, and the ADA lists excess caffeine among lifestyle factors and advises limiting it. The pages do not say how much is too much, so if your mouth is dry, try cutting back and see whether it helps.

Can a cold or sinus problem cause dry mouth?

The sources we read do not mention colds or sinus problems as causes. The ADA says mouth breathing can worsen dry mouth, and decongestants and antihistamines, often used for colds and sinus problems, are among the medicines it lists. If a blocked nose forces you to breathe through your mouth, expect a drier mouth, especially at night.

Can Sensodyne or toothpaste cause dry mouth?

The sources we read do not mention it. The ADA lists alcohol-containing mouthrinses among things to limit if you have dry mouth. Check the label and ask your dentist if a product seems to dry or irritate your mouth.

How dry mouth affects your teeth and gums

The ADA says reduced saliva raises the risk of tooth decay, especially at the root, near the gumline and on biting edges, and increases the risk of demineralization, sensitivity, gum disease and oral infections. Prevention includes brushing gently at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing daily, fluoride products if your dentist advises, prompt treatment of infections and regular visits.

What helps

The ADA and NIDCR suggest sipping water, a humidifier at night, sugarless gum or candy, lip lubricants, avoiding tobacco and alcohol and saliva substitutes, which give temporary relief but do not fix the cause of dry mouth. Treatment of the cause, such as changing a medicine, is done by a doctor. See our guide on how to get rid of dry mouth.

When to see a dentist or doctor

NIDCR says to see your dentist or doctor to find out why you have dry mouth. Cleveland Clinic says to see a provider if dry mouth does not go away, and that they can examine you and run tests for the cause. The ADA lists mouth sores, fungal infection, swollen salivary glands and dentures that no longer fit well as signs that need prompt care.

Who is more likely to have dry mouth

The ADA says taking several medications raises the risk, and lists cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and head and neck radiation, which can cause permanent salivary damage, autoimmune disease, especially Sjogren disease, aging-related changes, poorly controlled diabetes, stroke, HIV, hormonal changes and dehydration. Lifestyle factors it lists are tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, excess caffeine and spicy food. NIDCR says dry mouth is not a normal part of aging, so an older adult with dry mouth should have the cause checked, often a medicine, rather than assume it is expected.

Signs that dry mouth is affecting you

Common signs are a sticky or dry feeling, thick saliva, trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking, a sore throat, cracked lips, bad breath and a changed sense of taste. Cleveland Clinic's halitosis page lists dry mouth as a cause of bad breath. The other signs listed here are general and are not each stated by the sources we read. A dentist can look for cavities, gum disease, a fungal infection and sores, and a doctor can check for conditions behind it. Bring a list of everything you take, including supplements and over-the-counter medicines.

Questions to ask your dentist or doctor

Ask what is behind your symptoms.

• Is a medicine, condition or habit causing it?
• Do I need extra fluoride or cleanings?
• What products can I use for relief?
• What can I do at night?
• Do I need tests for another condition?

Guides in this topic

Frequently asked questions