Saliva washes away food, neutralises acids and helps protect teeth. When the mouth stays dry, decay and gum problems can develop quickly.
Common causes
- Medicines for blood pressure, allergies, depression and many others
- Not drinking enough water, especially in hot weather
- Breathing through the mouth while sleeping
- Diabetes
- Smoking and tobacco
What helps
- Sip water regularly through the day
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva
- Limit tea, coffee and alcohol
- Use fluoride toothpaste and keep up regular check-ups
- Ask your doctor whether a medicine could be the cause
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Please visit a dentist for advice about your own teeth.