When should you talk to your doctor about medication-induced dry mouth?

Have you recently started a new medicine and noticed your mouth feels dry? That's a real side effect worth tracking. Talk to the doctor who prescribed it if the dryness keeps coming back, does not improve or makes eating, swallowing or speaking harder, and reach out sooner if you notice mouth sores, infections or new tooth problems. Do not stop the medicine on your own; your doctor can review it, while your dental provider can help ease symptoms and protect your teeth. 

What you will learn in this article: 

• Many prescription and over-the-counter medicines can reduce saliva. 

• Tell your prescriber if dryness begins after a new medicine or dose change. 

• Do not change or stop a medicine without talking to your prescriber. 

• A dental provider can help ease symptoms and protect your teeth while the cause is reviewed. 

If dry mouth is affecting your comfort or teeth, schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider. Your care team can check your mouth and help you plan what to discuss with your doctor. 

Can your medicine cause dry mouth? 

Yes. A wide range of medicines can slow saliva production. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research notes that examples include some medicines used for high blood pressure, depression and bladder-control problems. Some cancer medicines may also change saliva so it feels thicker and your mouth feels dry.¹ 

Write down when the dryness began and whether it followed a new medicine or dose change. This information can help your doctor decide whether the medicine may be involved. 

Why is it worth raising with your doctor? 

Saliva does more than keep your mouth wet. The American Dental Association explains that it plays several protective roles, making it easier to eat and talk comfortably while guarding your teeth and the soft tissue in your mouth from harm. When you have less saliva, cavities, tooth sensitivity and mouth infections become more likely.² 

That is why ongoing medication-related dry mouth is worth discussing with both your doctor and your dental provider. Your doctor can review the possible cause, while your dental provider can look for early signs of damage. 

Should you stop the medicine on your own? 

No. Talk to your prescriber before changing the dose or stopping any medicine. Some medicines may not be safe to stop suddenly, and your doctor needs to weigh the dry mouth against the condition being treated. Explain how long your mouth has felt dry and how it affects eating, sleeping, swallowing or speaking. 

What might your prescriber do? 

After reviewing your symptoms and medicine list, your prescriber may decide to switch the medicine or adjust the dose. A doctor or dental provider may also suggest artificial saliva or another product that helps keep your mouth moist.¹ 

The right choice depends on the medicine and your health. Only your prescriber should make changes to your medication. 

What relief can you ask about in the meantime? 

Several steps may ease your symptoms and help protect your mouth while your doctor reviews the cause.² 

• Sip water throughout the day. 

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy if it is safe for you. 

• Ask about artificial saliva, moisturizing sprays or rinses made for dry mouth. 

• Avoid tobacco and alcohol, and limit caffeine if it makes the dryness worse. 

• Brush gently twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily and keep up with dental visits. 

Your dental provider may also talk with you about prescription dry mouth treatment. Medicine that increases saliva may help some people, but it can cause side effects and is not right for everyone. Ask your doctor whether it is an option for you.² 

What should you bring to your visits? 

Once you're ready to bring this to your doctor or dental provider, a little preparation helps. Bring a complete list of your prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements. 

Also write down when the dryness began, whether it changes during the day and what products you have tried. Share this information with both your doctor and your dental provider. 

If your mouth stays dry or you are worried about your teeth, schedule an appointment with your dental provider. Your care team can check your mouth and help you prepare for the conversation with your doctor. 

When should you talk to your doctor about medication-induced dry mouth? FAQs 

Still have questions about dry mouth and your medicine? Here are a few more answers.

Can cancer treatment or another health problem cause dry mouth? 

Yes. Chemotherapy can change saliva and make your mouth feel dry, while radiation to the head or neck can damage the salivary glands. Sjögren’s disease, HIV, diabetes, salivary gland disorders, nerve damage, mouth breathing and alcohol or tobacco use may also play a role.³ 

Should I call my doctor or my dental provider? 

Call your doctor or prescriber to discuss a possible medicine side effect or medication change. See your dental provider to check your teeth and gums and get help managing symptoms. If you are not sure where to start, contact both. 

What if over-the-counter products are not helping? 

Talk with your doctor or dental provider instead of continuing to try new products on your own. They may need to look for another cause or suggest artificial saliva, prescription treatment, fluoride care or treatment for a mouth infection. 

Sources 

¹ National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: “Dry Mouth.” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/dry-mouth 

² American Dental Association, ADA Library and Archives: “Xerostomia (Dry Mouth).” https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/xerostomia 

³ National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus: “Dry Mouth.” https://medlineplus.gov/drymouth.html