### What Causes Dry Mouth and How to Treat It Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, happens when your salivary glands don't produce enough saliva. This can make your mouth feel dry and uncomfortable. Saliva is important because it helps with digestion, keeps your mouth moist, and protects your teeth from decay and gum disease. #### Causes of Dry Mouth - **Medications**: Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause dry mouth as a side effect. - **Health Conditions**: Diseases like diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and Sjogren's syndrome can lead to dry mouth. - **Lifestyle Factors**: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and dehydration can also cause dry mouth. #### Symptoms of Dry Mouth - Dry or sticky feeling in the mouth - Bad breath - Dry throat - Cracked lips - Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing #### Treatments for Dry Mouth - **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. - **Chew Sugar-Free Gum**: This can help stimulate saliva production. - **Use a Humidifier**: Adding moisture to the air can help keep your mouth from drying out. - **Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol**: These can make dry mouth worse. - **Good Oral Hygiene**: Brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly. - **Medications**: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help increase saliva production or recommend artificial saliva products. If you think your dry mouth is due to an underlying condition or medication, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.