What Causes Dry Mouth?
11.02.2026

If there is not enough saliva to keep your mouth moist, moisten your mouth yourself. Continue doing this regularly throughout the day. In people whose salivary glands do not function properly, saliva may not be sufficient to keep the mouth moist.

Causes of Dry Mouth

  • It can cause problems with taste, chewing, swallowing, and speaking.
  • It may increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral infections.
  • It can be a sign of certain diseases and conditions.
  • It may result from certain medications or medical treatments.

Constant Thirst and Dry Mouth

If there is not enough saliva to keep your mouth moist, moisten your mouth yourself. Continue doing this consistently throughout the day.

Symptoms include:

  • A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, tasting, or speaking
  • A burning sensation in the mouth
  • A dry feeling in the throat
  • Dry lips
  • A dry, rough tongue
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Oral infections

Why Is Saliva So Important?

  • Saliva does more than keep your mouth moist; it is linked to the digestive system.
  • It protects against tooth decay.
  • It helps prevent infections by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

In people with dry mouth, the salivary glands may not function properly. Therefore, there may not be enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. There are several reasons why these glands (salivary glands) may not work properly.

  • Side effects of certain medications – More than 400 medications can reduce saliva production. Blood pressure medications and antidepressants commonly cause dry mouth.
  • Diseases – Certain diseases affect the salivary glands. Sjögren’s syndrome, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease can cause dry mouth.
  • Radiation therapy – If salivary glands are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment, they can be damaged.
  • Chemotherapy – Drugs used in cancer treatment can make saliva thicker and cause dry mouth.
  • Nerve damage – Injury to the head or neck can damage the nerves that control saliva production.

What Helps With Dry Mouth?

Treatment for dry mouth depends on the underlying cause. If you think you have dry mouth, consult your dentist or doctor. They can help determine the cause of your dry mouth.

  • If your dry mouth is caused by medication, your doctor may change the medication or adjust the dosage.
  • If your salivary glands are not working properly but still produce some saliva, your doctor or dentist may prescribe medications to help stimulate them.
  • Your doctor or dentist may recommend using artificial saliva to protect your mouth.

What Can I Do?

  • Drink water or other non-sugary beverages frequently.
  • Avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, and some carbonated beverages, as caffeine can dry out the mouth.
  • Drink water or a sugar-free beverage during meals to make chewing and swallowing easier and enhance the taste of food.
  • Chew sugar-free, gluten-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; citrus, cinnamon, or mint flavors are good options.
  • Avoid tobacco and alcohol use, as they dry out the mouth.
  • Keep in mind that spicy or salty foods may cause mouth discomfort.
  • Use a humidifier at night.

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Tülay AKKOL

Chief Dentist

Tülay AKKOL

Chief Dentist and Tülay Akkol Dental founder Tülay Akkol shares valuable insights on dental health and care, offering practical tips for everyday life. Her articles also highlight the latest innovations and developments in dentistry, helping readers stay informed about the industry's advancements.

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