Dry mouth

The presence of saliva is truly important for the health of your mouth, as it keeps tissues moist, aids in swallowing food, facilitates chewing and speech, and cleanses the mouth, as well as regulating bacteria in the oral cavity.

A balanced level of saliva regulates the microorganisms in the mouth, preventing the appearance of bad breath (halitosis), cavities, among other problems.

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth syndrome, is the sensation of dryness in the mouth due to a decrease in saliva production, caused by a change in the functioning of the salivary glands.

According to studies, xerostomia affects one in five adults, with more specific data indicating that approximately 20% of the population aged between 18 and 30 may develop this condition. In people over the age of 50, the incidence rate is around 40%. Generally, it affects twice as many women as men.

According to statistical data, Xerostomia is gaining increasing prominence in society, being a condition that alters overall health and quality of life.

Dry mouth syndrome is not a disease, but rather a clinical condition that causes discomfort to those affected by it.

Some symptoms include:

– Saliva of a viscous and foamy texture.

Cracked lips.

Dry lips.

– Burning and mouth ulcers.

Rough tongue.

– Change in taste of food.

– Burning sensation and pain in the tongue.

– Problems with chewing and swallowing.

– Headquarters.

Difficulty speaking.

Bad breath.

Periodontal disease.

Cavities.

- Problems with fitting removable dentures.

Infections.

There are various causes for the appearance of Xerostomia. Among these, we can mention a few:

– Disorders of the salivary glands, originating from the obstruction of saliva release ducts.

– Excessive and regular consumption of alcoholic beverages affects saliva production.

Medications such as antidepressants, antihypertensives, muscle relaxants, among others, tend to affect the amount of saliva produced.

Cancer patients can suffer from dry mouth due to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, especially those suffering from head or neck cancer.

– Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, tend to affect the salivary glands.

The absence of teeth leads to a decrease in oral stimuli and, consequently, a reduced production of saliva.

An unbalanced diet, with excess carbohydrates and a deficit of fruit and vegetables, can cause changes in saliva production.

Types of Xerostomia

Dry mouth syndrome is classified into two types, taking into account the level of glandular activity.

Reversible xerostomia

Caused by taking medication, smoking, and cancer drugs that reduce the amount of saliva in the mouth.

Oral moisture can be restored by stimulating saliva secretion.

2. Irreversible xerostomia

This occurs when there is irreparable damage at a glandular level that prevents its functioning. It can be found in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, or patients with head and neck cancer who receive high doses of radiation as treatment.

A xerostomia é diagnosticada através de um exame clínico, onde o médico ou dentista avalia os sinais e sintomas apresentados pelo paciente.

When a patient presents with this condition, the Dentist suggests carrying out various tests to confirm the syndrome.

During observation, attention is paid to the oral mucosa, looking for loss of shine or paleness, and if the tongue presents fissures. It is also possible for the patient to have oral candidiasis, mouth ulcers, cavities, as well as pharyngitis, laryngitis, among other infections, due to a lack of saliva.

With regard to examinations, a measurement of saliva levels, salivary gland biopsy (this way, the presence of inflammation or destruction of glandular tissue is observed), ultrasounds, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography are generally carried out.

In addition to confirming the diagnosis, these procedures allow the Dentist to understand the cause of this condition, should the patient not be taking medication for other treatments at that time.

Treatment of Xerostomia

There are various ways to treat dry mouth syndrome, in order to restore saliva production and moisture in the oral cavity.

First and foremost, the Dentist must first assess whether the Xerostomia is reversible or not, in order to indicate the appropriate treatment. When the condition is caused by the intake of certain medications, a change, reduction, or cessation of these drugs can be planned.

It is also important to consider that psychological factors are increasingly frequent in the onset of xerostomia, particularly chronic anxiety and excessive stress.

When xerostomia is reversible, certain types of medications are prescribed to keep the mouth moist, or even gel saliva substitutes to help hydrate the mucosa.

It is possible to try to stimulate salivary secretion by eating foods that require more energetic chewing, such as carrots, for example.

Drinking a larger amount of water during meals, chewing sugar-free gum, among others.

A oral hygiene It plays a fundamental role in patients with this condition. Brushing techniques should be reinforced, using a soft brush, specific toothpaste, among other measures that also benefit oral health.

It is also important to visit the dentist regularly, in order to assess the progress of the benefits of the recommended treatment, especially for patients with irreversible dry mouth syndrome.