Tips to Manage Nightly Dry Mouth

Are you finding yourself awake at night because your mouth is dry?

What Causes Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth is a common condition, marked by insufficient amounts of saliva in the mouth. A sufficient amount of saliva is necessary to both wash away food debris and bacteria as well as to remineralize weakened tooth enamel. Common causes for everyday dry mouth include:

• Dehydration
• Anxiety, nervousness, stress
• Side effects of medications or medical treatments
• Medical conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, immune/autoimmune disorders, anemia, nutritional deficiencies
• Aging
• Smoking, drugs
• Caffeine, alcohol use
• Excessive sugar consumption

Although dry mouth discomfort can occur at all hours of the day, there are some folks who only seem to experience dry mouth at night. Possible causes of nighttime dry mouth may include:

• Snoring
• Mouth breathing
• Nasal congestion/obstruction (leading to mouth breathing)
• Air conditioning or fans

Dry Mouth Dental Products

There are lines of dental hygiene products specifically designed to treat dry mouth. These products include mouthwashes, toothpaste, lozenges, mouth sprays, and artificial saliva. Talk to your dentist for recommendations on what might work for you.

How to Treat Dry Mouth at Home

Talk to your doctor to see if any of these remedies might help you!

• Stay hydrated - sip water throughout the day and keep water by your bed at night
• Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash
• Use a humidifier while sleeping
• Address nasal congestion or blockages
  • Use meds to treat allergies/sinus infections/colds
  • Use a nose spray
  • Use a nasal dilator
• Avoid caffeine and tobacco
• Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless candy (in moderation)
• Redirect airflow from your fan or AC so it doesn't blow directly into your face
• Use products specifically for Dry Mouth