Dry mouth problem

Although an adequate saliva secretion plays a key role in maintaining good oral health, many patients, perhaps through a long-standing acceptance of the discomfort, will fail to mention they are suffering from what is commonly called a dry mouth, or xerostomia.   

In most healthy adults the volume of saliva production varies between two and six cupfuls per day, and xerostomia is identified when this drops to below one cupful. Saliva is responsible for hygiene and lubrication throughout the oral cavity, where it helps to control harmful bacteria, regulates pH levels, eliminates food particles and re-mineralises and maintains the integrity of the oral mucosa.

Saliva is produced by the parotid, submaxillary, sublingual and other, smaller mucous glands within the mouth. Analysis reveals a complex, serous fluid which contains two major types of protein: the digestive enzyme ptyalin and a mucous secretion which carries the lubricating aid mucin; significant concentrations of potassium and bicarbonate ions are present, and smaller amounts of sodium and chloride ions. Other constituents include the antimicrobial agents thiocyanate, lysozyme, immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and transferrin. The complexity of saliva’s composition indicates a multiplicity of functions, and a restricted salivary flow is potentially damaging to the patient’s overall health, even beyond the oral area.