Reviewing Xerostomia: A Common Condition on the Rise

Xerostomia encompasses a variety of signs and symptoms that collectively characterize a dry mouth. Intermittent dry mouth is common and is reversible by providing adequate oral hydration, stress management, and diet and lifestyle changes.When xerostomia becomes a chronic condition,investigation of the contributing causes and conditions is required.While having dry mouth may be bothersome, it can also be debilitating.

Here, the role of saliva is reviewed with an eye to how its functional impairment effects oral and systemic health. The many signs and symptoms of xerostomia are described to facilitate its identification and treatment. The causes of xerostomia are varied and wide-ranging, and several are explored here as are various medical and non-medical treatment options. Included are 6 case vignettes gleaned from interviews of patients with xerostomia who remedied their symptoms, all or in part,usinga specific toothpaste and oral rinse, ClōSYS. These interviews, conducted by this author with the support of Rowpar Pharmaceuticals, Inc., demonstrate that ClōSYS is a safe, viable option for those striving to optimize self-care at home. Health care practitioners can help patients with xerostomia, not only by lessening their symptoms and preventing complications, but also by providing resources, education and support.