Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Xerostomia
Xerostomia is also known as dry mouth. It happens when there is not the right amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva is also called spit. Some people have no spit at all. Spit makes it easier to chew and swallow your food. It also helps to break down food. It may help you avoid mouth disease. It protects your teeth from decay. Xerostomia is not an illness, but a sign of some other problem.
Name
Xerostomia
About this topic
Xerostomia is also known as dry mouth. It happens when there is not the right amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva is also called spit. Some people have no spit at all. Spit makes it easier to chew and swallow your food. It also helps to break down food. It may help you avoid mouth disease. It protects your teeth from decay. Xerostomia is not an illness, but a sign of some other problem.
What drugs may be needed?
Treat dry mouth,Treat other causes
What problems could happen?
Trouble speaking,Trouble chewing or swallowing,Problems tasting food,Bad breath,Sore throat or hoarse voice,Tooth decay or gum disease,Mouth infection
Body systems
Dental,Gastrointestinal
What are other common names?
Cotton Mouth,Dry Mouth
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