Geriatrics·Geriatrics
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Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is a condition where your mouth does not make enough saliva (spit). Saliva helps you chew, swallow, and speak, and it protects your teeth from decay. When you don't have enough saliva, your mouth can feel sticky, dry, or uncomfortable.
Key facts
Yes, dry mouth is very common in older adults. Many people over 65 experience it at some point.
Dry mouth affects people of all ages, but it is especially common in older adults. It can also affect people who take certain medicines, have a chronic health condition like diabetes or Sjögren's syndrome, or who have been treated with radiation to the head or neck.
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, health history, and medicines. They will look inside your mouth, check your teeth and gums, and see how much saliva you produce.
Diagnosis is usually simple and done in a clinic visit. Your provider may ask you to describe your symptoms and when they started. They might also ask about all the medicines you take. Sometimes they refer you to a dentist or a specialist.
Treatment for dry mouth focuses on relieving symptoms, protecting your teeth, and addressing the underlying cause if possible. Many cases can be improved with simple self-care steps.
Living with dry mouth means paying extra attention to oral hygiene and staying hydrated. Keep a water bottle nearby, use lip balm, and avoid foods that are very dry or spicy. Many people find that sugar-free gum or lozenges help throughout the day.
A soft, moist diet can be easier to eat – try soups, stews, yoghurts, and smoothies. Avoid very salty, spicy, or acidic foods if they cause discomfort. Staying physically active helps overall health but be sure to drink extra fluids when exercising.
You cannot always prevent dry mouth, but you can reduce your risk. Stay hydrated, limit caffeine and alcohol, avoid tobacco, and keep your mouth clean. If you take medicines that cause dry mouth, ask your doctor if there are alternatives.
Regular dental check-ups can help catch problems caused by dry mouth early. There is no specific screening test for dry mouth.
For most people, dry mouth can be managed well with simple self-care and medical support. Although it may not go away completely, you can keep your mouth comfortable and healthy by working with your healthcare team. It's a condition that usually does not get worse over time if you take care of it.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
If self-care isn't enough, your healthcare provider may recommend saliva substitutes (rinses, sprays, or gels) to keep your mouth moist. They can also adjust or change any medicines that might be causing dry mouth. In some cases, prescription medicines that help the body produce more saliva may be considered – your doctor will discuss the options with you.
Surgery is rarely needed for dry mouth. It may be considered if there is a blockage in a saliva gland or if a salivary tumour is causing the problem.
Dry mouth can be frustrating and may make you feel self-conscious when speaking or eating. If it causes anxiety or sadness, talk to your healthcare provider. Joining a support group or sharing tips with others who have the same problem can also help.