Oral Care
Dry mouth relief and oral care, shipped across Canada. For baby teething gels, see Dental & Gum.
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Saliva protects teeth from decay, so a mouth that stays dry needs attention, not just comfort. Common causes include:
- medications, such as many antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure pills and bladder medicines
- radiation to the head and neck
- Sjögren's syndrome
- diabetes
Biotène Oralbalance Moisturizing Gel coats the mouth to relieve dryness. It's especially useful at bedtime, because saliva drops overnight.
Other ways to help dry mouth
- Sip water through the day and keep some by the bed.
- Chew sugar-free gum or lozenges to get saliva flowing.
- Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash, and cut back on caffeine and alcohol.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and see your dentist more often, because dry mouth raises the risk of cavities.
When to get advice
If dry mouth started after a new medication, ask your pharmacist; there may be an alternative. See a doctor or dentist if it comes with dry eyes, joint pain, mouth sores, white patches or trouble swallowing.
