Dry mouth

Dry mouth
http://www.wellness.com/reference/conditions/dry-mouth/prevention-and-treatment

TREATMENT
A doctor will determine the underlying cause of dry mouth in the patient and then take steps to minimize the underlying cause, such as stopping a medication causing the dry mouth. For many individuals, however, little can be done to alter the underlying cause. However, there are methods to manage the symptoms of dry mouth.
If the dryness is due to drugs or medications, it may be possible for a doctor to advise the individual to stop taking those drugs, reduce their intake, or switch to another "less drying" medication. If the dryness is due to a specific disease, such as diabetes, proper treatment of the disease will decrease the intensity of dry mouth symptoms. Occasionally, it is not known what causes dry mouth. Examples of these conditions include Sjögren's Syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis. In these instances, dry mouth s
Symptomatic treatment typically includes four areas: increasing existing saliva flow, replacing lost secretions, control of dental cavities, and specific measures, such as treatment of infections.
Saliva stimulants (also called sialagogues), such as sugarless candies and chewing gum, may be used to stimulate saliva flow when the saliva glands are still functioning. Individuals should be advised to take frequent sips of water throughout the day and to suck on ice chips. Eating foods such as carrots or celery may also help patients with residual salivary gland function. The addition of flavor enhancers, such as spices and fruit extracts, may make food more palatable to individuals complaining of their
Lubricants such as Orajel® or Vaseline® and glycerin swabs on the lips and under dentures may relieve drying, cracking, soreness, and damage to the mucous membranes (such as lips). These lubricants may also be used as a substitute for saliva in some individuals.
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) products that are available to provide assistance in the management of xerostomia. These products range from saliva substitutes and stimulants to products designed to minimize dental problems.
Saliva substitutes: Artificial saliva or saliva substitutes can be used to replace moisture and lubricate the mouth. Artificial salvias are formulated to mimic natural saliva, but they do not stimulate salivary gland production.
Commercially available products come in a variety of formulations including solutions, sprays, gels, and lozenges. In general, they contain an agent to increase the thickness of the saliva. They include carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxyethylcellulose, minerals such as calcium and phosphate ions and fluoride, preservatives such as methyl- or propylparaben, and flavoring and related agents.
Some commercially available saliva substitutes include: Moi-Stir® Oral Swabsticks swabs; Optimoist® spray; Saliva Substitute® liquid; and Xero-Lube® Artificial Saliva sodium-free spray.
Saliva stimulants: Over-the-counter (OTC) saliva stimulants are available. Natrol Dry Mouth Relief® uses a patented pharmaceutical grade of anhydrous crystalline maltose (ACM) to stimulate saliva production. Natrol Dry Mouth Relief® lozenges may be dissolved in the mouth three times daily.
Dentifrices: A dentrifice is a preparation for cleansing and polishing the teeth; it may contain compounds, such as fluoride, to stop dental cavities. Dentrifices that may help decrease dry mouth include Biotene® Dry Mouth Toothpaste and Biotene® Gentle Mouthwash.
Pilocarpine tablets: Pilocarpine tablets (Salagen®) are used to treat dryness of the mouth and throat. These decreases in saliva production are caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva that may occur after radiation treatment for cancer of the head and neck or in patients with Sjögren's syndrome. Pilocarpine stimulates the salivary glands to produce saliva. Pilocarpine is only available with a prescription.
Pilocarpine should not be used in those with uncontrolled asthma, narrow-angle glaucoma, iritis (inflammation of the iris), or individuals who are pregnant. The most common side effects are increased sweating and gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea and diarrhea.
Cevimeline: Cevimeline (Evoxac®) is another prescription medication used to stimulate the production of saliva. Cevimeline is indicated for the treatment of symptoms of dry mouth in individuals with Sjögren's syndrome. Side effects are similar to pilocarpine.
Other medications: Human interferon alfa (IFN-a) is currently undergoing clinical trials to determine the safety and efficacy of low-dose lozenges in the treatment of salivary gland dysfunction and xerostomia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome.
INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES
Unclear or conflicting scientific evidence :
Acupuncture: The practice of acupuncture originated in China 5,000 years ago. Today, it is widely used throughout the world and is one of the main pillars of Chinese medicine. There is some limited evidence suggesting that acupuncture may stimulate salivary flow in some patients with xerostomia (dry mouth). More studies of better design are needed to evaluate this use.
Anhydrous crystalline maltose: Anhydrous crystalline maltose has been used as a food stabilizer in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Anhydrous crystalline maltose (ACM) has been studied and may be effective for relieving symptoms of dry mouth associated with Sjogren's syndrome. Additional study is needed.
Yohimbe: The terms yohimbine, yohimbine hydrochloride, and yohimbe bark extract are related but not interchangeable. Yohimbine is an active chemical (indole alkaloid) found in the bark of the Pausinystalia yohimbe tree. Studies report that yohimbine is able to increase saliva in animals and in humans. Based on these few studies, yohimbine has been used for the treatment of dry mouth caused by medications, such as antidepressants. However, yohimbe bark extract may not contain significant amounts of yohimbin
Traditional or theoretical uses lacking sufficient evidence :
Integrative therapies used in conditions causing dry mouth (xerostomia) that have historical or theoretical uses but lack sufficient clinical evidence include: blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus), blue flag (Iris versicolor), bovine colostrum, ginseng (Panax ginseng), horseradish (Armoracia rusticana, Cochlearia armoracia), hypnotherapy, quassia (Picraena excelsa, Quassia undalata, Quassia amara), tamarind (Tamarindus indica), and yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum).
PREVENTION
When the cause of xerostomia cannot be determined or cannot be resolved, the individual may be able to improve saliva flow by sucking on sugar-free hard candy or chewing sugar-free gum. It is best to avoid acidic foods or hard candies, as they make saliva acidic, increasing the possibility of tooth decay. It is also a good idea to avoid sugary foods and candies because they increase the risk of tooth decay as well.
If the individual smokes or chews tobacco, quitting will reduce symptoms of dry mouth.
To protect the teeth, healthcare professionals recommend brushing with fluoride toothpaste after meals and visiting a dentist regularly. A doctor or dentist may suggest using prescription fluoride toothpaste. Using a fluoride rinse or brush-on fluoride gel before bedtime also may offer protection from cavities.
Individuals may also: sip water regularly; try over-the-counter saliva substitutes, such as Saliva Substitute®; and avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth. It is best to breathe through the nose, not the mouth, and add moisture to the air at night with a room humidifier.
Plenty of water is recommended by healthcare professionals. At least six to eight, 8-ounce glasses of water daily should be consumed to prevent symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth.