Causes & Risks of Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Dry Mouth: A Symptom That Deserves Attention

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, isn’t just uncomfortable—it can signal deeper health problems and increase your risk of oral disease. Many Wellington residents, especially seniors and those on multiple medications, experience this condition daily.

At Wholesome Smiles Mobile Oral Health, we specialise in supporting patients with chronic conditions, mobility challenges, or complex oral health needs. By understanding what causes dry mouth, you can take early steps to prevent further complications.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

1. Medications and Aging

More than 500 medications list dry mouth as a side effect, including antidepressants, antihypertensives, and allergy medications.

• Seniors are particularly vulnerable due to polypharmacy (multiple prescriptions).

• Chronic conditions like diabetes and Parkinson’s disease can also reduce saliva flow.

  
  

  

  https://dimensionsofdentalhygiene.com/article/xerostomia-management/

2. Autoimmune Conditions & Family History

Persistent dry mouth could signal autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, where the immune system attacks saliva glands.

• A family history of autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus) raises your risk.

• Early diagnosis is key to protecting oral and overall health.

  
  

3. Vaping and Nicotine Exposure

Vaping may feel gentler than smoking, but it’s not risk-free:

• Vape juice often contains high nicotine levels that reduce saliva flow.

• Flavour additives can irritate tissues, increasing mouth dryness.

• Frequent vaping may worsen bad breath and gum irritation.

  
  

4. Candida (Oral Thrush)

Candida is a naturally occurring yeast in the mouth, but when saliva levels drop, it can thrive:

• Dry mouth increases your risk of oral thrush.

• Thrush worsens dryness, causing a cycle of infection and irritation.

• People with dentures, diabetes, or weakened immunity are more vulnerable.

  

  Oral candida or thrush can look like white coating and lead to more dry mouth

5. Reflux and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

Travel has made H. pylori infections more common globally, particularly in countries like Japan.

• H. pylori can worsen acid reflux in some people.

• Chronic reflux irritates your throat and oral tissues, leading to dryness and discomfort.

• Medications used to treat reflux can also reduce saliva production.

H. pylori could be an overlooked factor contributing to dry mouth

Risks of Untreated Dry Mouth

Without adequate saliva, your mouth is prone to:

• Tooth decay and gum disease – saliva washes away bacteria and neutralises acids.

• Difficulty eating, swallowing, or speaking – affecting nutrition and confidence.

• Mouth infections like thrush, which can become recurrent.

• Denture discomfort – poor lubrication causes rubbing and sores.

• Worsening reflux symptoms – dryness may aggravate existing reflux.

When to Seek Professional Help

Contact a dentist or doctor if you have:

• Persistent dryness, altered taste or burning sensations.

• White patches, ulcers, or frequent mouth infections.

• A family history of autoimmune disease, plus fatigue or joint pain.

• Difficulty eating or speaking that affects quality of life.

Mobile Dental Care in Wellington

At Wholesome Smiles, we bring expert preventive dental care to your doorstep. Our mobile services are ideal for:

• Seniors or patients with limited mobility.

• People managing complex medical conditions.

📞 Book your home dental appointment today to protect your health and smile.

References:

• Mayo Clinic. (2023). Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

• Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Oral thrush and dry mouth.

• American Dental Association. (2023). Dry mouth and oral health.