What is xerostomia?

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  1. American Dental Association
     

    Reduced saliva flow results in xerostomia, or dry mouth. Dry mouth is a symptom rather than a specific disorder. Adequate salivary flow lubricates oral tissues, cleanses the mouth and begins the digestive process as foods are chewed. When salivary flow is reduced, harmful organisms grow in the mouth.

     

    More Related Answers from American Dental Association
    Reduced saliva flow results in xerostomia, or dry mouth. Dry mouth is a symptom rather than a specific disorder. Adequate salivary flow lubricates oral tissues, cleanses the mouth and begins the digestive process as foods are chewed. When salivary... More
  2. Healthwise
     
    Healthwise answered:

    Xerostomia is a condition in which the mouth is dry because it does not produce enough saliva. Saliva helps neutralize the acid caused by plaque, making it harmless to teeth, and it helps flush away sugars that stick to teeth.

    Xerostomia has many possible causes. But it is most often a side effect of medicine. Mild or moderate dry mouth can usually be improved by taking frequent sips of water, chewing gum, or sucking on sugarless hard candy. More severe dry mouth symptoms may need treatment with medicine.

    Mouth lubricants and saliva substitutes can help to moisten the mouth and throat. People with dry mouth need to be especially attentive to their dental care.

     

    More Related Answers from Healthwise
    Xerostomia is a condition in which the mouth is dry because it does not produce enough saliva. Saliva helps neutralize the acid caused by plaque, making it harmless to teeth, and it helps flush away sugars that stick to teeth. Xerostomia has... More
  3. Dr. John Van der Werff
     

    It is a reduction or lack of saliva in the mouth. It is usually more noticeable during the day because the amount of saliva is decreased during sleep.

    More Related Answers from Dr. John Van der Werff
    It is a reduction or lack of saliva in the mouth. It is usually more noticeable during the day because the amount of saliva is decreased during sleep. More