Management of dry mouth in elderly patients

Xerostomia is not a natural consequence of the aging process. Although dry mouth is not often found to be a chief complaint of elderly patients, it is a common problem that usually receives inadequate attention. Xerostomia is the feeling of dry mouth due to insufficient secretion of saliva. It is most common among the elderly as a result of adverse effects of drug therapy, head and neck radiation, or autoimmune diseases. Chronic xerostomia has a debilitating effect on the integrity of the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. It often causes difficulty in speaking, tasting, eating, swallowing and denture retention. The goals of treatment are to stimulate salivary flow, or to restore oral moistness and prevent or alleviate the uncomfortable, harmful sequelae of xerostomia. Dentists can significantly enhance the quality of life for xerostomia sufferers by effectively managing the xerostomia sequelae in a compassionate, understanding manner.