Dry mouth affects the salivary glands, keeping your body from producing enough saliva to keep your mouth properly wet. You may produce some saliva but not enough or you may struggle to produce any saliva at all. Dry mouth symptoms can vary from one person to the next. The most common symptoms of dry mouth at night include:

• Waking up frequently to drink water
• Dry or sore throat
• Dry and/or chapped lips
• Bad breath in the morning

During the day, common symptoms of dry mouth can also include:

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Unpleasant taste or changes in the way food tastes
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Hoarseness

Preventing Dry Mouth While Sleeping

There are several options for relieving dry mouth and most are as simple as some lifestyle changes, including:

• Use a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air
• Avoid spicy, acidic, and sugary foods before bed
• Limit or eliminate alcohol and caffeine, as well as tobacco and drug use
• Chew sugar-free gum
• Use nasal sprays or strips to open the nose for better breathing

Choosing the right mouthwash is another good step to take. Using a rinse that has alcohol in it can dry out your mouth. Try one out that doesn’t have alcohol. There are also mouthwashes that are designed to help with dry mouth. Adding fluoride toothpaste and fluoride gel before bedtime is also worth looking into. For those two options, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist.

Should You See a Professional?

If you’ve already tried all of the methods you can use at home, it’s time to talk to your dentist. If you leave dry mouth untreated, it can lead to some severe dental problems in the long run. Schedule an appointment today.