Dry Mouth: Why It Happens and How to Fix It

If your mouth feels sticky, you’re not alone. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can sneak up when you’re busy, sick, or taking certain meds. The lack of saliva isn’t just uncomfortable—it can lead to sore gums, bad breath, and trouble swallowing. Below you’ll find the most common culprits and easy, everyday tricks to get your saliva back in action.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

Most people think dehydration is the only reason, but the list is longer. Here are the top triggers you should watch:

• Medications. Antidepressants like Effexor XR, anxiety drugs such as Ativan, and antihistamines often list dry mouth as a side effect. If you’re on any prescription, check the label.
• Health conditions. Diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, and Parkinson’s can reduce saliva production.
• Mouth breathing. Sleeping with your mouth open or talking a lot while exercising dries out the tissues fast.
• Smoking and alcohol. Both irritate the salivary glands and lower fluid levels.
• Age. As we get older, glands naturally produce less fluid, making dry mouth more common in seniors.

Spotting the cause helps you pick the right fix. If a drug is the issue, talk to your doctor—sometimes a dosage tweak or an alternative can make a big difference.

Easy Ways to Relieve Dry Mouth

You don’t need a pharmacy for every solution. Try these simple habits first:

1. Sip water throughout the day. Small sips keep the mouth moist without overwhelming your kidneys.
2. Chew sugar‑free gum or suck on sugar‑free lozenges. The act of chewing signals your glands to produce more saliva.
3. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine. They all pull moisture out of your system.
4. Use a humidifier at night, especially if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping.
5. Swish a gentle, alcohol‑free mouth rinse (look for “dry mouth” on the label) to keep tissues hydrated.

For a quick boost, a teaspoon of honey or a slice of fresh cucumber can coat your mouth and give relief without adding sugar.

When home tricks aren’t enough, over‑the‑counter saliva substitutes are worth a try. Look for products labeled “artificial saliva” or “mouth moisturizing spray.” They’re safe for most people and work well with dental care routines.

Remember to keep up with regular dental check‑ups. Your dentist can spot early signs of decay that often appear when saliva is low.

Dry mouth is usually manageable with a few lifestyle tweaks and a bit of awareness about meds that might be causing it. Try the suggestions above, and if the problem persists, schedule a chat with your healthcare provider. Your mouth will thank you.