Dry Mouth Remedies: Simple Fixes for Persistent Dryness

When your mouth feels like it’s full of cotton, you’re not just uncomfortable—you’re at risk for cavities, bad breath, and even trouble swallowing. This condition, called xerostomia, a medical term for dry mouth caused by reduced saliva flow. It’s not just old age—it can come from medications, dehydration, breathing through your mouth, or even stress. Many people ignore it, but dry mouth isn’t normal. It’s your body’s way of saying something’s off.

Saliva does more than help you talk and swallow. It fights bacteria, protects your teeth, and keeps your gums healthy. When it dries up, everything gets harder. The good news? You don’t need fancy products or expensive treatments. Simple, everyday fixes often work better. Drinking more water is the first step, but it’s not enough on its own. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free hard candies can trigger your salivary glands to wake up. Look for ingredients like xylitol—it’s been shown in studies to help increase saliva flow without feeding cavity-causing bacteria. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, caffeine, and tobacco. They all make dry mouth worse. If you take medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, or blood pressure pills, talk to your doctor. Some alternatives exist that don’t zap your saliva.

Humidifiers at night help if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping. Keep a water bottle handy during the day—not to sip slowly, but to take regular sips. Try rinsing with a saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) to soothe irritated tissues. Avoid spicy, salty, or sugary foods that burn or stick in a dry mouth. If you’re constantly thirsty and your mouth stays dry even after drinking, it could be linked to conditions like diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome. Don’t assume it’s just aging. Track your symptoms. Note what makes it better or worse. That info helps doctors figure out the real cause.

What you’ll find below are real stories and practical fixes from people who’ve been there. From natural remedies that actually work to over-the-counter products that save lives, these posts cut through the noise. No marketing fluff. Just what helps—and what doesn’t.