Dry Mouth: A Cotton Mouth Mystery Solved

Cotton mouth, medically known as xerostomia, is a common condition that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth don't make enough saliva, leaving you with a dry, uncomfortable feeling.

Causes of Cotton Mouth

• Medications: Many medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and decongestants, can cause cotton mouth as a side effect.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome, and HIV/AIDS, can damage the salivary glands and lead to cotton mouth.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can also cause cotton mouth.
• Smoking: Smoking can reduce saliva production and worsen cotton mouth.

Treatment for Cotton Mouth

• Saliva substitutes: These over-the-counter products can help to lubricate your mouth and relieve dryness.
• Artificial saliva: This prescription medication is used to stimulate saliva production.
• Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy: This can help to increase saliva production.
• Drinking plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is essential for preventing and treating cotton mouth.

Benefits of Treating Cotton Mouth

• Improved oral health: Saliva helps to protect your teeth from cavities and gum disease. Treating cotton mouth can help to improve your oral health.
• Reduced discomfort: Cotton mouth can be uncomfortable and painful. Treating it can help to relieve these symptoms.
• Improved speech and swallowing: Saliva helps to lubricate your mouth and throat, making it easier to speak and swallow. Treating cotton mouth can improve these functions.

How to Prevent Cotton Mouth

• Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is essential for preventing cotton mouth. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day.
• Avoid sugary drinks: Sugary drinks can dehydrate you and worsen cotton mouth.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can reduce saliva production and worsen cotton mouth.
• Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and reduce cotton mouth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using mouthwash that contains alcohol: Alcohol can dry out your mouth and worsen cotton mouth.
• Chewing tobacco: Chewing tobacco can also dry out your mouth and worsen cotton mouth.
• Ignoring cotton mouth: If you have cotton mouth, it's important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.