Dry mouth might sound like a minor inconvenience, but it can have a surprisingly big impact on your oral health.

Saliva plays a vital protective role in the mouth. It helps neutralise acids, wash away food particles, and protect teeth from decay. When saliva flow is reduced, the mouth becomes more acidic. This creates the perfect environment for enamel erosion and tooth decay to begin — often quietly and without obvious early symptoms.

What causes dry mouth?

Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is commonly linked to both medical conditions and medications.

Common medical conditions associated with dry mouth include:

  • Diabetes
  • Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Menopause and hormonal changes
  • Sleep apnoea or chronic mouth breathing

Common medication groups that can reduce saliva flow include:

  • Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications
  • Antihistamines (for allergies and hay fever)
  • Blood pressure medications, including beta-blockers and diuretics
  • Certain pain medications

If you take regular medications and notice ongoing dry mouth, it’s worth mentioning this to both your GP and your dentist.

Simple strategies to manage dry mouth

While dry mouth isn’t always preventable, there are several things you can do to reduce its impact:

  • Sip water frequently throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once — this keeps the mouth consistently moist
  • Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
  • Avoid sugary or acidic drinks, which can worsen erosion
  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups

Your dentist may also recommend saliva-substitute products or topical fluoride if your risk of decay is higher.

Did you know?

On average, your body produces around 1 to 1.5 litres of saliva every day — roughly the same as a large water bottle! When that production drops, your teeth lose one of their most important natural defences.

If you’re experiencing persistent dry mouth, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can make a big difference in protecting your teeth long-term.