Management of Dry Mouth.

Abstract

Background: Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common complaint among older people. Dry mouth can result in a variety of dental complications, oral discomfort, difficulty swallowing and eating, and decreased taste sensation, all of which can adversely affect quality of life. Objective: To provide an overview of the definition, diagnosis, causes, potential complications, and treatment strategies for dry mouth. Data Sources: PubMed, Proquest, Cochrane Library, drug prescribing information, drug information databases, and manufacturers' websites were used. Search terms were "xerostomia," "dry mouth," "hyposalivation," "causes," "treatment," and "pharmacology." The resources identified included clinical practice guidelines, review articles, and original research articles. Data Synthesis: The literature described the causes and treatment strategies for managing xerostomia, including concerns for older adults, and pharmacists' involvement for providing care. Discussion: The most common cause of dry mouth in the general population and in older adults is medication use. Individual medications may cause dry mouth, primarily through anticholinergic side effects. Polypharmacy is also a cause. Other causes are dehydration, alcohol and caffeine intake, and systemic diseases such as Sjögren's disease. If not addressed, individuals experiencing chronic dry mouth are at increased risk for various oral conditions such as dental caries, periodontal disease, and infections. Interventions such as good oral hygiene methods, using saliva substitutes containing xylitol and prescription cholinergic agonists, if appropriate, can reduce symptoms and complications. Conclusion: Pharmacists can play an important role in managing dry mouth by conducting medication reviews, providing patient education for oral health practices, and recommending treatment strategies.