It is currently estimated that 1 in 4 adults, mainly women, suffer from a sensation of dry mouth, a syndrome also known as xerostomia.
In the vast majority of cases, this sensation is usually accompanied by a real decrease in the amount of saliva or hyposalivation.
What are the causes of dry mouth?
There are different circumstances related to the actual decrease in saliva production. The most important ones are described here:
- Dehydration, which is usually due to insufficient fluid (water) intake.
- Some autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, among others.
- Aging can lead to salivary gland dysfunction.
- Side effects of some medications such as antihypertensives and antidepressants.
- Anxiety and stress
What are the consequences of dry mouth?
Saliva is so important in the oral cavity. A decrease in saliva produces:
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Difficulty chewing
- Caries
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth (lips, tongue, inner cheeks, etc.).
- Infections
There are treatments and protocols to increase the amount of saliva, which can improve the quality of life of people suffering from this ailment.