Waking Up with Dry Mouth

Xerostomia occurs when you don't salivate enough to keep your mouth sufficiently moist, according to Better Health Channel, Victoria. This lack of saliva can be attributed to a number of factors, whether seasonal, habitual or health-related. The most common causes of dry mouth are:

• A side effect of medications, such as antidepressants, NSAIDs and blood-pressure regulators
• Salivary gland disease
• The use of radiation for cancer treatment
• Chronic medical conditions or autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Emotional stress
• Hormonal changes, including pregnancy and menopause

Keep in mind that waking up with dry mouth problems doesn't necessarily mean that you have a serious condition, but consider seeing your doctor to inform him or her that you have this oral care condition and have some known symptoms.

A dry mouth and/or sticky saliva is your best indicator; it may even feel as if your mouth is full of cotton. Other signs and symptoms include a burning sensation; a tongue that feels "thick" like leather; trouble performing functions such as chewing, swallowing and speaking; or the development of dry lips and sores in your mouth or throat.

Your doctor may recommend changing some of your medications or prescribe preparations such as saliva stimulants or saliva substitutes, according to Better Health Channel, Victoria. These products can help to reduce the dryness while you work to treat the underlying problem.

Keep a close eye on the condition of your teeth, too. Dry mouth can increase your risk for dental caries and gum disease. See a dentist for an examination in addition to your oral care routine at home.

To help avoid dry mouth problems stay hydrated. Better Health Channel, Victoria recommends including watery foods in your daily diet.

Other steps you can take in managing the condition and its potential side effects include:

• Checking your mouth daily for sores and inflammation;
• Maintaining a good oral health regimen;
• Removing dentures overnight and soaking them in a cleansing solution.

By managing your dry mouth you can help minimise the degree of xerostomia and its impact on your oral health.