Having a dry, sticky mouth is considered normal once in a while. But if one experiences the problem constantly, it is a cause for concern. Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth is more prevalent in older individuals. It is typically a side effect of an ongoing treatment or an existing underlying condition, which must be managed with the right remedies to prevent it from worsening and causing more serious health issues.

1. Chew sugar-free gum
One of the fastest ways to treat dry mouth is to chew gum, candies, or lozenges. The chewing motion helps produce and circulate more saliva in the mouth, keeping it moist. That said, one must opt for sugar-free gum or candy instead of the varieties that contain excessive sugar. Doing so will ensure tiny sugar particles do not remain behind, inviting bacteria and leading to mouth odor. It will also ensure the teeth are not damaged in the process.

Sugar-free gum, candies, or lozenges are easily available in the market. One can get them from a nearby convenience store or order them online. But they only serve as instant, temporary solutions, so one may also want to consider other ways to treat a dry mouth.

2. Maintain oral hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is a major cause of dry mouth, so it is important to prioritize healthy practices like brushing and flossing.

• Brush and floss twice daily to keep the oral cavity clean and healthy.
• Gargle and rinse the mouth thoroughly after meals.
• Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria, debris, and dead cells.

Although these practices may be time-consuming, adding them to the oral care routine is important when trying to manage dry mouth. Additionally, dry mouth puts an individual at a higher risk for cavities, so regular brushing and flossing become  all the more necessary.

3. Use mouthwash regularly
Mouthwash plays a prominent role in maintaining oral hygiene. Gargling with it helps kill the harmful bacteria living and breeding in the mouth or teeth. This is an important step because harmful bacteria can cause inflammation in the salivary glands, lowering saliva production. Mouthwash also helps maintain the moisture levels in the mouth, which is especially important for those dealing with dry mouth as a side effect of an ongoing treatment.

While mouthwash is a great home remedy to manage dry mouth symptoms, it can sometimes have the opposite effect. Certain ingredients in it can dry the oral cavity, leading to complications. That’s why when trying to manage or prevent dry mouth, one should opt for mouthwash designed specifically for the condition and its related symptoms.

4. Stay hydrated
Anyone with dry mouth or related concerns should drink plenty of water daily and eat water-rich fruits and veggies. Doing so can keep the oral cavity and the airways moist and help one find instant relief from the symptoms.

One way to ensure proper hydration is to carry a bottle of water wherever one goes and sip on it from time to time . But it’s also important to consult a licensed healthcare professional, as the amount of water needed per day can vary from person to person. Overhydrating is equally harmful because it can lead to several health complications.

5. Use a humidifier
Dry mouth symptoms can worsen upon spending too much time indoors. The air inside a house is usually dry, so repeatedly inhaling it can dry the oral cavity. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the indoor air could help prevent this. If not in each room, homeowners can install a humidifier in the area they use most frequently. Once done, the machine will help moisten the airways and prevent dry mouth.

6. Limit caffeinated and sugary beverages
Coffee is among the most popular beverages people across the country enjoy. Its caffeine content helps one feel more awake, alert, and energetic. That said,  caffeine also worsens dry mouth symptoms, so one should avoid the beverage as much as possible. Those who cannot completely give up coffee can switch to decaf.

Like coffee, sugary beverages are best avoided when dealing with dry mouth. Sugar can lead to tooth decay and impact oral health, eventually worsening dry mouth symptoms.

7. Breathe through the nose
Breathing with an open mouth is one of the most common causes of dried-up airways. But people rarely do this intentionally. Health concerns like colds, respiratory conditions, and other underlying health conditions usually cause individuals to unknowingly breathe with an open mouth. Sports like running, heavy exercises, and other activities that can cause exertion are also common causes.

Some people unintentionally sleep with their mouths open and then wake up with a dry mouth. To avoid this, one must make a conscious effort to breathe through their nose. Sleeping with the mouth closed can help cure dry mouth at night naturally.

Aside from trying at-home remedies to get instant relief from dry mouth and its associated symptoms, one must visit a dentist or an oral hygienist. Scheduling regular check-ups with the expect can help one address concerns before they become serious. The expert can also prescribe treatments for individuals with severe dry mouth.