5 Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Persistent Dry Mouth

Keep the water glass nearby. Put the persistent dryness on your dentist’s appointment list too.

Five questions for the visit

1. “Are any of my medicines contributing?” Bring the full list. Medicines for blood pressure, depression and bladder control can reduce saliva. A clinician can consider dose or medication changes.¹

2. “Do I need a saliva test or blood tests?” The NIDCR¹ describes these as possible next steps after reviewing medical history and medicines. Ask which, if any, fits your symptoms.¹

3. “How should I protect my teeth?” Saliva helps fight decay. Ask about your home oral-care routine and dental check-ups, with persistent dryness included in the discussion.¹

4. “Would a saliva substitute help?” The NIDCR¹ lists artificial saliva and other products for moisture and stickiness. Ask the dentist which product suits you and how to use it.¹

5. “What else should I report?” Mention trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking, mouth sores and recurrent infections. The NIDCR¹ lists these among dry-mouth symptoms. Put the symptom that bothers you most first.¹

While you’re waiting

The NIDCR¹ suggests water, sugarless gum and avoiding tobacco and alcohol to ease dryness. And it advises seeing a dentist or doctor for persistent symptoms. Relief and evaluation both belong in the plan.¹

Notes you can return to

Is It My Breath? includes a Source Map, Breath Log, two-minute routine card and visit script, according to its toolkit description. It adds records and questions alongside the mouth and breath coverage. See the book.

Bring the medicine list with the water glass.