How to Get Rid of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth occurs for a number of reasons. It can be the result of a disease, it can be caused from the removal of salivary glands or it can be a side effect of medication. The actual clinical condition of dry mouth is called xerostomia. If dry mouth is left alone for a long period of time, teeth can start to decay and risk factors for disease of the soft tissue of the mouth increase.

Instructions

• 1

  Suck on ice cubes. This can help to keep the mouth wet and also stimulate the salivary glands. You can also use sugar-free hard candies or ice pops.

• 2

  Take a jug of water wherever you go. Sip the water all day long and keep a bottle or glass near your bed at night.

• 3

  Avoid foods that are salty, high in sugar or very dry. Also avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can cause excessive urination and exacerbate dehydration.

• 4

  If you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco, stop.

• 5

  Chew sugarless gum. Gum has a twofold approach: The sugar from the gum and the movement of the jaws both act to stimulate saliva.

• 6

  Eat a lot of fiber. Fiber requires more chewing. This can not only help to stimulate saliva but help lower your cholesterol.