Dry Mouth: Causes and When to See a Specialist

Oral issues: dry mouth?

Hello, Doctor: Recently, my father has been experiencing dry mouth and throat after visiting the dentist.
According to him, after swallowing saliva, he feels that his mouth (including his throat) is very dry, although his saliva production seems to be normal and there are no other abnormalities.
He just feels like his entire oral cavity is locked up after swallowing, and his lips are also a bit dry.
What could be the issue? Why is this happening? If necessary, which specialist should he see?

Miss Peng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/19

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello Ms.
Peng,
The symptoms you described may be related to Sjögren's syndrome, oral ulcers, oral infections, or chronic pharyngitis, among other conditions.
It is advisable to undergo a laryngoscopy to rule out the presence of any masses and to consider pharmacological treatment.
If Sjögren's syndrome is suspected, further examinations such as biopsies or imaging studies may be necessary.

In addition to medication, please keep the following lifestyle recommendations in mind: avoid lying down for two hours after eating, and refrain from consuming coffee, tea, tobacco, alcohol, fried foods, and spicy foods, as these can help improve symptoms.
However, if symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist or dentist.

Wishing you health and safety,
Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/02/19

More Info

Dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia, is a condition characterized by a decrease in saliva production, leading to a persistent feeling of dryness in the mouth and throat. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting their ability to speak, swallow, and taste, and can also increase the risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.

In your father's case, the sensation of dryness despite normal saliva production could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the dental procedure he underwent may have temporarily affected his salivary glands or the nerves that control them. Dental treatments, especially those involving local anesthesia, can sometimes lead to a temporary disruption in normal salivary function. Additionally, anxiety or stress related to dental visits can also contribute to a feeling of dryness in the mouth.

Another potential cause could be related to medications. Many medications, including those for allergies, depression, and high blood pressure, can have dry mouth as a side effect. If your father is taking any new medications or has recently changed his dosage, this could be a contributing factor.
Furthermore, certain medical conditions can lead to dry mouth. Conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases can affect the salivary glands and lead to reduced saliva production. In some cases, the sensation of dryness can also be linked to issues with the mucous membranes in the mouth or throat, which can be exacerbated by dehydration or environmental factors such as dry air.

Given the symptoms your father is experiencing, it would be advisable for him to consult with a healthcare professional. The first step would typically be to see a dentist, especially since the symptoms began after a dental visit. The dentist can assess whether there are any dental issues contributing to the sensation of dryness and can provide recommendations for management.

If the dentist rules out dental causes, your father may be referred to a specialist, such as an oral medicine specialist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. These specialists can conduct further evaluations to determine if there are underlying medical conditions affecting saliva production or the sensation of dryness.

In the meantime, there are several strategies that can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Encouraging your father to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day can be beneficial. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can stimulate saliva production. Additionally, using a humidifier at home, especially in dry environments, can help maintain moisture in the air and reduce the feeling of dryness.

In summary, while dry mouth can be a common issue following dental procedures, it is essential to monitor the symptoms and seek professional advice if they persist. A thorough evaluation by a dentist or a specialist can help identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment options to improve your father's comfort and oral health.

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