Dry mouth (xerostomia)

Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is the condition of not having enough saliva to keep the mouth wet.

Hundreds of medicines can cause the salivary glands to make less saliva. Radiation to the head and neck, and some health conditions, can too. When dry mouth persists, it can make chewing, swallowing and even talking difficult.

Saliva also helps keep harmful germs in check. Without enough of it, the risk of tooth decay and fungal infections such as oral thrush goes up. Tell your dentist and your doctor if your mouth is often dry. They can look for the cause.