Dry mouth treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Dry mouth treatment
Recommended health tests for Dry mouth
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Dry mouth
Dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia, is a condition where the salivary glands in your mouth don't produce enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. It's more than just an occasional nuisance; dry mouth can affect your oral health, nutrition, and overall quality of life. The prevalence of dry mouth varies widely, ranging from 10% to 46% in different populations, with higher rates observed among older adults. Given its impact, understanding and managing dry mouth is crucial.
Causes
Dry mouth can result from various factors. Medications, with over 400 common ones listing dry mouth as a side effect, are the most frequent culprits. These include drugs for depression, anxiety, pain, allergies, and colds. Additionally, medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, yeast infection (thrush) in the mouth, and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome can lead to dry mouth. Treatments for cancer, primarily radiation to the head and neck, and chemotherapy, can also reduce saliva production. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking or chewing tobacco and excessive caffeine intake, further exacerbate the condition.
Signs and symptoms
- A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth or throat - Frequent thirst - Sores in the mouth; sores or split skin at the corners of the mouth; cracked lips - A dry, red, raw tongue - Problems speaking or difficulty tasting, chewing, and swallowing - Hoarseness, dry nasal passages, sore throat - Bad breath
Diagnosing Dry mouth
Diagnosis of dry mouth starts with a detailed medical history and a physical exam. Your doctor may ask about any drugs you're taking, your eating habits, and your oral hygiene routine. They might measure the rate of your saliva flow and conduct tests to check for Sjögren's syndrome or other related conditions. In some cases, imaging tests are performed to examine the salivary glands and ducts for any abnormalities or blockages.
Prevention and natural treatment
Prevention and treatment of dry mouth aim at both relieving symptoms and addressing underlying causes. Here are natural and functional medicine strategies to manage dry mouth: - Increase fluid intake to stay hydrated. Water is best, but herbal teas are also beneficial. - Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies to stimulate saliva flow. Xylitol-containing products are preferred, as they can also reduce the risk of tooth decay. - Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol and over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants, as they can worsen the dryness. - Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, and consider using a fluoride rinse or gel to protect your teeth. - Use a room humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially in winter. - Quit smoking and limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as these can further dry out your mouth. - Discuss potential medication adjustments with your healthcare provider if your dry mouth might be drug-induced. They might lower the dose or switch you to a different medication. Adopting a holistic approach to managing dry mouth, focusing on natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments, can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Remember, for persistent problems, always consult with a healthcare professional to tailor a treatment plan that's right for you.
Browse popular locations
Atlanta, GA- Houston, TX
- Chicago, IL
- Los Angeles, CA
- Miami, FL
- Austin, TX
- Dallas, TX
- New York, NY
- Seattle, WA
- Charlotte, NC
- Denver, CO
- Maryland, NY
Connect with an expert for Dry mouth
