Xerostomia is the subjective sensation of dry mouth that occurs when saliva production is reduced due to salivary gland malfunction.

Saliva is necessary for the oral cavity to work properly, since it keeps oral tissues lubricated, moist and protected. It is also needed for basic functions like talking, chewing and swallowing. A great number of people are affected by dry mouth, but many are unaware that they can find the solution in the pharmacy.

Dry mouth has a variety of causes that are usually related to daily habits or special situations.

The main causes are:

Public speaking: increased need for salivation to help vocalize for long periods of time.Lack of teeth: reduced saliva production due to less oral stimulants.Stress, anxiety and depression: affect the central nervous system and therefore the glands throughout the body, i.e. the salivary glands.Unbalanced diet: an excess of carbohydrates and lack of fruits and vegetables can hinder saliva production.Advanced age: salivary gland cell degeneration Medicine use: There are more than 400 drugs that cause dry mouth, including antihypertensives, antihistamines, antidepressants, etc. Smoking/Alcohol: affect the stimulants that reach the salivary glands.Systemic diseases (Sjögren’s Syndrome, diabetes): can cause an imbalance in salivary gland function. Radio- and chemotherapy: cancer treatments cause mucous gland atrophy.