Dry Mouth
Over the counter relief options
Is there a treatment for dry mouth?
Dry mouth (xerostomia) occurs when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva is essential for speaking, swallowing, tasting food, and protecting teeth and gums. Common causes include medications (such as antihistamines, antidepressants..etc), dehydration, aging, stress or anxiety, mouth breathing, and medical conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or cancer treatments involving the head and neck. Persistent dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and oral infections.
How to manage the symptoms
Managing dry mouth involves using products and habits that moisturize the mouth, stimulate saliva, and protect oral tissues. Saliva substitutes and oral moisturizers help hydrate and coat the mouth for immediate relief, while saliva-stimulating lozenges, discs, or sugar-free xylitol gum and mints encourage natural saliva production and help protect teeth.
Gentle oral care with dry-mouth toothpaste, enamel-strengthening toothpaste, and a soft-bristle toothbrush supports dental health. Lip and mouth protection with soothing ointments or balms can prevent cracking at the lips and corners of the mouth. Used together, these strategies provide ongoing comfort, hydration, and support for oral health.
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
The following are the recommended products for dry mouth relief with convenient Amazon links. If you opt to purchase through, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse & Spray
Pro tips and selection criteria​
Choosing the right product is based on symptoms, age, and other factors that you need to consider to achieve the best relief results.
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Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse & Spray
Alcohol-free products used to help relieve dry mouth by moisturizing and soothing oral tissues while supporting the health of teeth and gums. The oral rinse is suited for routine daily use and provides longer-lasting hydration and comfort, while the spray offers quick, convenient relief when dryness occurs during the day or while away from home.
Tip: Use the rinse in the morning and evening as part of regular oral care, and use the spray as needed between meals, during travel, or when speaking for long periods. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 15 minutes after use to help maintain moisture longer.
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Biotène Oralbalance Gel
A thick, soothing gel formulated to provide long-lasting relief from dry mouth. It coats and moisturizes oral tissues, helping reduce discomfort while protecting teeth and gums from dryness-related irritation and damage. This makes it especially helpful for more severe dry mouth or nighttime symptoms, when saliva flow naturally decreases.
Tip: Apply a small amount to the tongue and inner cheeks before bed or as needed, and avoid rinsing, eating, or drinking afterward to allow the gel to remain in place longer and maximize overnight relief.
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ACT Dry Mouth Mouthwash
An alcohol-free rinse formulated to relieve dry mouth while helping protect teeth from cavities. It soothes irritated oral tissues, provides lasting moisture, and contains fluoride to strengthen enamel and support overall oral health. It is suitable for daily use, especially for individuals with reduced saliva production.
Tip: Use twice daily after brushing, swish gently for the recommended time, and avoid eating or drinking for at least 15 minutes afterward to allow the fluoride and moisturizing ingredients to work effectively.
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Saliva-Stimulating Products
Help relieve dry mouth by encouraging the body’s natural saliva production while also supporting dental health. They increase moisture and comfort throughout the day. Slow-dissolving discs adhere inside the mouth, making them especially useful for nighttime dry mouth, while lozenges, gum, and mints are convenient for daytime, on-the-go relief. Products containing xylitol also help reduce cavity-causing bacteria, offering added protection for teeth.
Tip: Use saliva-stimulating products between meals or when dryness worsens, choose sugar-free options only, and for nighttime use, place slow-dissolving discs along the gum line rather than chewing to avoid sleep disruption.
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Biotène Dry Mouth Toothpaste
A toothpaste formulated to gently clean teeth while minimizing irritation associated with dry mouth. Its low-abrasion formula and mild flavor help reduce discomfort during brushing, protect gum tissue, and support daily oral hygiene without contributing to dryness.
Tip: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush, avoid harsh whitening toothpastes, and consider waiting a few minutes before rinsing to allow protective ingredients to remain on the teeth longer.
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Lanolin-Based Lip Balms
Lanolin-based lip balms provide long-lasting moisture and protection for dry, cracked lips commonly associated with dry mouth. They help soothe irritation, prevent cracking at the corners of the mouth, and maintain softness and comfort throughout the day. Their gentle, occlusive nature makes them suitable for sensitive skin and frequent use.
Tip: Apply a thin layer several times daily and before bed, focusing on the lip corners; avoid licking lips, which can worsen dryness.
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Which one to choose
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For quick, on-the-go relief: Use Biotène Dry Mouth Spray or saliva-stimulating lozenges or xylitol gum. These are convenient for daytime use, work, or travel and provide fast moisture when dryness flares.
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For daily moisture and protection: Use Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse, ACT Dry Mouth Mouthwash, or Biotène Dry Mouth Toothpaste to maintain consistent hydration, protect teeth, and support overall oral comfort as part of routine oral care.
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For severe or nighttime dryness: Choose Biotène Oralbalance Gel or XyliMelts Discs, which provide longer-lasting moisture and are especially helpful while sleeping or for persistent dry mouth.
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For sensitive gums and enamel protection: Use Sensodyne Pronamel toothpaste with a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean gently while strengthening enamel.
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For dry or cracked lips: Apply lanolin-based lip balms, Aquaphor Healing Ointment, or petroleum-free alternatives to protect lips and prevent cracking at the corners of the mouth.
Tip: Many people benefit from combining products—rinses or sprays during the day, gels or discs at night, and gentle toothpaste and lip care daily—to maintain comfort, moisture, and oral health throughout the day.
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