Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Lifestyle modifications recommended for patients experiencing dry mouth to alleviate symptoms include:
- Encourage regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, tongue cleaning, and good denture care to maintain oral moisture and prevent complications NICE CKS.
- Increase fluid intake with frequent sips of cold, unsweetened drinks, water sprays, ice cubes, or ice lollies to stimulate saliva and soothe dryness NICE CKS.
- Use sugar-free chewing gum, boiled sweets, pastilles, or mints to promote saliva production NICE CKS.
- Avoid acidic foods (e.g., pineapple) or acidic artificial saliva products if the patient has natural teeth, as these can increase tooth decay risk in dry mouth NICE CKS.
- Apply lip lubricants such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline®) or water-soluble lubricants (e.g., K-Y Jelly® if on oxygen) to prevent lip dryness and cracking NICE CKS.
- Modify diet to exclude irritants such as garlic and onions that may exacerbate oral discomfort NICE CKS.
- Advise smoking cessation to reduce oral dryness and improve overall oral health NICE CKS.
- Rinse the mouth after meals and at bedtime with warm water or appropriate mouthwash (e.g., chlorhexidine if gum disease is present) to remove debris and maintain moisture NICE CKS.
If symptoms persist, consider topical saliva stimulants or artificial saliva substitutes, noting patient preferences and cultural considerations regarding product ingredients NICE CKS.