Dry mouth, also known as ‘xerostomia,’ is a condition in which the mouth stops producing enough saliva and helps to keep it adequately moist. This leads to the mouth being uncomfortably dry along with hoarseness in the throat.
The American Academy of Oral Medicine estimates that around 65% of the overall world population suffers from xerostomia(1).
Very commonly, dry mouth is caused due to the side effects of certain medicines, treatments, and infections. Also, it can also be caused by nerve damage, severe dehydration, or surgical removal of the salivary glands. The symptoms of dry mouth are:
Coconut oil acts as a moisturizer and keeps the mouth moist. Coconut oil is edible oil which cleans the mouth and soothes the irritated spots.
Take one tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it in your mouth for 15 minutes. Brush your teeth after. Follow this routine every morning.
Citrus oil is rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which helps combat dry mouth. Stanford Medicine(1) reveals that the compound d-limonene provides protection against dry mouth.
Take some citrus oil in your finger and massage it across your mouth. Rinse your mouth with water after. Do this twice every day to combat dry mouth.
[Read: Best Drinks For Dry Mouth]
Eucalyptus oil has a rich aromatic property that helps treat bad mouth odor, while also keeping the mouth moist. According to many sources, eucalyptus oil also cures dental plaque in some people.
Put some drops of oil on your toothbrush and brush your entire mouth with it. Follow this routine every day before going to bed.
Clove oil has a eugenol compound which is known for its aromatic properties. It is also rich in anti-inflammatory, which helps treat dry mouth. Clove oil also reduces the risk of cavities.
Pour 2-3 drops of clove oil on your brush and use it to brush your entire mouth. You can also pour some drops directly on the tongue. Do this regularly after your meals.
[Read: Home Remedies for Dry Mouth]
Spearmint is greatly beneficial(2) in fighting bad mouth odor and in keeping the mouth wet. Due to its antibacterial and cleansing properties, it is also used in kinds of toothpaste.
Pour 2-3 drops of spearmint oil on your brush and then brush your entire mouth with it. Do this after a meal to keep your mouth clean and moist.
Olive oil is rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which help cleanse the mouth and keep it moist. Sources believe that olive is one of the best natural and economical oil for oral health.
You can directly swish one tablespoon of olive oil in the mouth for 10-15 minutes before spitting it out. Do this once every morning.
[Read: Dry Throat Remedies]
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Without saliva, we would not be able to taste anything. |
[Read: Mouthwash for Dry Mouth]
Mentioned below are some tips you can keep in mind to avoid the condition of dry mouth.
Yes, hormonal changes can cause dry mouth. A decrease in the amount of estrogen can cause dry mouth, jaw shrinkage, etc.
Keep a water bottle next to your bed and sip on it when you feel your mouth getting dry. You can also use a humidifier in the room to keep moisture in the air.
Depending on the cause, dry mouth can last from a few weeks to a few months.
Lemon juice can help regulate the production of saliva, thereby helping keep the mouth moist. Additionally, its acidic and antibacterial properties double its benefits by helping eliminate bad breath. In a glass of warm water, add the juice of half a lemon and a few drops of honey, if needed.
Chew sugarless gum (gums containing the sugar xylitol). These sucking and chewing actions help stimulate saliva flow. Moisten foods with broths, soups, sauces, gravy, creams, and butter or margarine. Eat soft, moist foods that are cool or at room temperature.