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Letter D

Dry mouth

Also known as: Xerostomia, Low saliva

Dry mouth symptom guide: what it can mean, possible causes, and when to seek care. Educational only.

Overview

Dry mouth can come from medicines, mouth-breathing, diabetes, or dehydration. It raises tooth-decay risk. Water and dental advice help.

Possible causes

  • Medicines (antihistamines, some blood-pressure drugs)
  • Diabetes
  • Mouth-breathing
  • Dehydration
  • Salivary gland problems

When to see a doctor

See a clinic or dentist if dry mouth lasts, or you have pain or swallowing trouble.

Related conditions