What’s the Best Treatment for Dry Mouth? Pharmacist Explains

By Samer Altameemi- RPh (affiliate disclosure below)

Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, occurs when the mouth does not produce enough saliva. It can be caused by medications, dehydration, mouth breathing, aging, medical conditions, or treatments such as radiation therapy.

Because saliva helps protect the teeth, gums, and oral tissues, treating dry mouth is about more than comfort—it’s also important for oral health.

From a pharmacist’s perspective, the best treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.

Stay Hydrated First

One of the simplest treatments is increasing fluid intake throughout the day.

Drink water regularly, especially:

• During exercise

• In hot weather

• When taking medications that may cause dry mouth

Small, frequent sips are often more helpful than drinking large amounts at once.

Saliva Substitute Sprays

Use Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse, Biotène Moisturizing Spray, or similar saliva substitutes to help lubricate the mouth temporarily.

These products may help:

• Relieve dryness

• Improve comfort while speaking

• Make swallowing easier

They are often most useful at bedtime or during long periods of talking.

Dry Mouth Lozenges and Melts

Use XyliMelts® , ACT® Dry Mouth, or Biotène Lozenges to provide longer-lasting moisture.

These products slowly dissolve and help:

• Stimulate saliva production

• Reduce nighttime dry mouth

• Improve oral comfort

Xylitol-containing products may also help protect against cavities.

Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum containing xylitol may stimulate the body’s natural saliva production. This is often one of the most effective options for people who still have some salivary gland function.

It may be especially helpful:

• After meals

• During the day

• For medication-related dry mouth

Mouth Rinses for Dry Mouth

Use Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse instead of alcohol-containing mouthwashes.

Alcohol-based mouthwashes may worsen dryness, while dry-mouth rinses are designed to moisturize and protect oral tissues.

Check Your Medications

One of the most common causes of dry mouth is medication.

Common examples include:

• Antihistamines for allergies.

• Sleep aids containing diphenhydramine

• Antidepressants

• Some blood pressure medications

• Bladder contol medications

If dry mouth began after starting a medication, speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Found OTC  is your place to find smart over-the-counter solutions for common daily conditions, designed by the pharmacist.

Pharmacist Reviewed: the information in this article was clinically reviewed by Samer Altameemi, a licensed pharmacist. It is intended for educational purposes, not to substitute for a doctor's professional medical advice.

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