Having a dry mouth is quite common; everyone experiences this condition at some point. Sometimes, it’s short-lived. For example, you can experience a dry mouth when you’re overwhelmed by anxiety or simply dehydrated. At other times, a dry mouth (technically called xerostomia) can be more prolonged and downright difficult to endure. Chemotherapy, certain medications, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases are merely some of the conditions associated with chronic cases of a dry mouth.
If left untreated, a dry mouth can be more than just annoying; it can affect your oral health. Thankfully, though, you can find some relief with lozenges. So if you or a loved one struggles with dry mouth issues, here’s some information on how lozenges can help, along with some extra tips.
Lozenges for Dry Mouth
Sucking on lozenges helps stimulate saliva, which is good for your teeth, gums and general oral health. When choosing a dry mouth lozenge, select a sugar-free product. Xylitol which is found in many sugar-free products, stimulates salivary flow, and reduces bacteria that can overgrow in a dry mouth. Xylitol also helps to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Sucking on the lozenge works your chewing muscles that also stimulate saliva flow, as does the lozenge flavour.
Other Ways to Stimulate Saliva Flow
According to Better Health Channel, in addition to lozenges, you can find over-the-counter products (sprays, pastes, mouthwashes) for relief from dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum and snacking on chewy - but not crunchy – foods (which may injure the mouth) also help with a dry mouth. Drinking more water and maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits are all good, too.
Things to Avoid for Dry Mouth
Some things will make your dry mouth feel worse. So practice a little self-care and try to minimise the use or consumption of the following offenders:
- salty, dry, and sugary foods and drinks
- alcohol and caffeine
- smoking
There are many causes of a dry mouth and many ways to manage it. So if you regularly suffer from mouth dryness, talk with your health professional to help identify what may be the cause. Lozenges and other solutions may not be a cure, but they can certainly help make life more comfortable. Finally, as always, make sure you continue your oral health appointments (e.g., checkup, scale and clean) with your dental professional.
