dry mouth (xerostomia)

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition where the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva is essential for maintaining oral health, aiding in digestion, and preventing infections. When saliva flow decreases, the mouth feels dry, which can cause discomfort, difficulty speaking or swallowing, bad breath, and an increased risk of tooth decay. Causes include medication side effects, certain health conditions, dehydration, smoking, or aging. Managing dry mouth involves staying hydrated, using saliva substitutes, and addressing underlying causes to improve comfort and oral health.