Xerostomia (dry mouth) is not a disease in itself but a symptom. Saliva neutralises acids, washes away bacteria, provides minerals for enamel remineralisation, and contains antibacterial enzymes. When saliva is insufficient, all these protective mechanisms weaken.
According to the DGZMK, xerostomia affects 20-30% of adults. The most common cause is medication.
Common causes
Medications: over 500 drugs can cause dry mouth: antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure medications, diuretics.
Systemic conditions: Sjogren's syndrome, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders.
Other factors: head and neck radiation, dehydration, mouth breathing, snoring, stress, smoking.
Dry mouth and caries
Without enough saliva, oral pH drops. Acid attacks after meals last longer and enamel cannot recover. Result: caries develops faster, often in unusual spots such as tooth necks or incisal edges.
What you can do
- Drink water frequently, in small sips throughout the day.
- Chew sugar-free gum (with xylitol) to stimulate saliva flow.
- Use oral moisturisers: Biotene, GUM Hydral, Xerostom (gels, sprays, rinses).
- Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, they dry the mucosa further.
- Discuss with your doctor whether medications causing dryness can be changed.
Your dentist may prescribe fluoride varnish or high-fluoride toothpaste (5,000 ppm) for extra enamel protection. More frequent professional cleaning every 3-4 months is also recommended.