Dry mouth: sugar-free chewing gum to activate salivary glands

When dry mouth isn’t related to an underlying medical condition, drinking a large glass of water first thing in the morning can alleviate this unpleasant sensation. Another solution is sugar-free gum. ” Chewing, and therefore having something in your mouth, prompts the brain to send a message to the salivary glands, encouraging them to produce more saliva to initiate the first phase of digestion. This process, with salivary amylases, also reduces dry mouth ,” explains Dr. Lequart. It’s also advisable to limit your consumption of caffeinated beverages ( coffee, tea, and some soft drinks), which can decrease saliva flow, as well as spicy foods, which can exacerbate the feeling of dry mouth. If your bedroom is dry, you can use a humidifier. Finally, in the evening before bed, you can gargle with a glass of water containing a teaspoon of baking soda, which can neutralize the acidity associated with dry mouth. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for advice or to consult the Ma Bouche Ma Santé website launched by the UFSBD.