xerostomia
dry mouth
Xerostomia is the subjective sensation of dry mouth due to a decrease in saliva, caused by impaired salivary gland function. The presence of saliva in the oral cavity is very important to avoid a microbial imbalance in the oral environment, which can lead to the onset of caries, gum disease, halitosis, or bad breath, etc.
Reversible xerostomia
Characterised by registering residual glandular activity where salivary secretion can be stimulated or regulated. This type of xerostomising effect is produced by medications, stress, unbalanced diets and public speaking, etc.
Irreversible xerostomia
There is irreparable glandular damage that prevents proper functioning. This clinical picture can be found in patients diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome or patients with head and neck cancer who receive large doses of radiation therapy.
-
Public speaking: increases the need for salivation to help better vocalise words
-
Stress, anxiety and depression: affect the central nervous system, and therefore, organs and glands throughout the body (including the salivary glands) are affected.
-
Diabetes and other systemic diseases also affect the entire body, impairing gland function.
-
Treatment with certain medications: antihistamines, antihypertensives, diuretics and cancer drugs, etc.
-
Absence of teeth: causes a decrease in stimuli in the mouth and, as a result, saliva production drops.
-
Unbalanced diet with excess carbohydrates and deficiency of fruits and vegetables.
-
Smoking and alcohol consumption: salivary secretion may decrease, since these inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses.