Dry Mouth Affects Many Older Adults

The American Dental Association reports that dry mouth affects 30% of adults aged 65 and older, with the prevalence rising to 40% among those 80 and up. This condition involves the salivary glands failing to produce sufficient fluid, a problem that often accompanies soreness, bad breath, and difficulty wearing dentures.

Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, explained that the primary issue is insufficient fluid production. She emphasized that identifying the root cause is the first step in treatment. “Basically your salivary glands are just not producing enough fluid. And so you want to know why. You know, always find your why,” Rogers said.

Rogers listed several potential causes for the condition. These include dehydration, damage to nerves, cancer, and underlying autoimmune disorders. She noted that an autoimmune disorder might signal that “something else is going on.” Rogers also stated that dry mouth can appear as an early sign in otherwise healthy individuals. “That might be their clue that you have something going on in your body. And this is your early sign,” she said.

Gerontologist “Sam” Cradduck highlighted the functional importance of saliva. She compared the lack of saliva to driving a car without engine oil, noting that the vehicle will not last long. “People don’t realize just how important saliva is,” Cradduck said. Without adequate saliva, talking, eating, and chewing become difficult. She described saliva as the mouthwash for the body.

Rogers added that saliva serves to cleanse and protect tooth enamel. She pointed out that dentures do not reduce the need for saliva. In fact, dry mouth can alter how dentures fit and affect chewing, leading to discomfort, pain, and more sores.

Cradduck, who manages her own dry mouth due to an autoimmune condition, shared practical strategies. She keeps gum in her mouth constantly, including while sleeping, to stimulate salivation. She also uses candy and hard drops. Cradduck advised avoiding alcohol-based mouthwashes, which can be drying. She also named drinking and smoking as habits that can worsen the condition.

Cradduck mentioned sticky drops placed on the gums as another option. She described a patient who had salivary glands removed due to cancer and uses stickers around the gums. Rogers explained that treatments generally work by stimulating underproducing glands or providing moisture when glands cannot function.

Aging expert Amy O’Rourke recommended that patients discuss oral health with their dentists during regular visits. She suggested asking how the mouth is doing and specifically inquiring about dryness. O’Rourke identified frequent coughing, recurring infections, and avoiding certain foods as potential signs of trouble. “Stay on top of it by reaching out to the professionals,” she said.