Most people associate dry mouth with the fear of speaking to a crowd of people, but the fact of the matter is that it can happen to anyone. Many people do not consider it the most severe side effect, yet it can prove to be quite uncomfortable for the people who experience it consistently. Dry mouth refers to the lack of saliva production in the mouth. It can result in tooth decay and even pain.

In this article, we will discuss the top reasons for dry mouth.

Medication

According to the Mayo Clinic, dry mouth is listed as a side effect of certain medications. Medications that are used in the treatment of depression and anxiety, muscle pain, and Parkinson’s disease can result in a dry mouth. Some medicines used for the treatment of colds and allergies are also reported to have resulted in mouth dryness.

The bad news is that you might have to deal with the dry mouth using other methods if your dry mouth-causing medication is necessary. An appropriate way to cope with the mouth dryness in this regard is to keep a pack of sugar-free gum. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth. You may want to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash if dry mouth is causing bad breath.

Undergoing cancer treatment is yet another reason for a dry mouth. Chemotherapy and radiation, in particular, result in mouth dryness in most patients. Your saliva production should return to usual after the treatment is complete.

Smoking and alcohol consumption

Smoking and alcohol consumption are disastrous habits that can result in a host of problems, including dry mouth. Smoking can result in the release of toxins in the mouth that can slow down the production of saliva, while alcohol consumption can dry up the mouth. The inability to produce enough saliva along with a consistently dry mouth can result in harmful bacteria taking control of your oral cavity, resulting in bad breath.

The best thing that you can do is to quit smoking and alcohol consumption because it is not just about dry mouth. These habits can result in several problems that can cause significant damage to your health.

Dehydration

Another most notable reason for dry mouth is dehydration. That’s where it becomes necessary to keep your fluid intake in check. Dehydration is a condition referring to a lower level of body fluids. It undoubtedly results in a dry mouth because your salivary glands use body fluids to produce saliva. Severe cases of dehydration can result in fever, excessive sweating, and vomiting.

Fortunately, the treatment of dehydration is quite simple and easy – drink more water. Make sure to drink at least 7-8 glasses of water a day to keep your body well-hydrated. Keep a water bottle with you the entire time and take small sips now and then.

Dry mouth can be a chronic condition, and you may want to get treatment for it to prevent it from causing any further problems. The best way is to visit your dentist or doctor to discuss your condition.