Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
What is Dry Mouth?
What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth—also known as xerostomia—is more than just an inconvenience. It can affect your comfort, eating, speaking, and increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. At Genesis Dental, we’re here to help you identify the cause and find effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Book your appointment today to restore comfort and protect your smile.
Common Causes of Dry Mouth
Xerostemia can result from several underlying factors, including:
Certain medications (e.g. antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure meds)
Medical conditions such as diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, or Parkinson’s disease
Radiation therapy to the head or neck
Dehydration or mouth breathing
Smoking or alcohol consumption
Age-related changes in saliva production
Symptoms of Xerostomia
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be a sign of dry mouth:
Persistent dry or sticky feeling in the mouth
Bad breath
Burning sensation or sore throat
Cracked lips or corners of the mouth
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
Increased risk of tooth decay and gum irritation
Changes in taste
Our Treatments for Dry Mouth
Genesis Dental in Canning Vale provides tailored care to help relieve dry mouth symptoms and protect your long-term oral health. Professional dental checkups play a key role—not just in identifying underlying causes, but also in removing plaque and bacteria that can build up due to reduced saliva.
Dry Mouth Relief at Home
To ease symptoms between appointments, try these strategies:
Sip water regularly throughout the day
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking
Use sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva
Choose alcohol-free mouthwash
Sleep with a humidifier if air is dry
Avoid overly salty, spicy, or dry foods
- Try specially designed gels, sprays, or oral rinses to keep your mouth moist
Many pharmacies and supermarkets carry over-the-counter products designed to support saliva production and provide dry mouth relief
How to Prevent Dry Mouth
While not all causes can be avoided, you can lower your risk with a few simple habits:
- Stay well-hydrated each day
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Avoid habits that dry out your mouth, such as smoking
Manage medical conditions with your doctor’s support
Keep up with regular dental checkups
When to See a Dentist for Xerostomia
If dry mouth is persistent, painful, or interfering with daily life, don’t wait. Chronic dryness can lead to serious dental problems over time. Our experienced dentists can identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment to protect your long-term oral health.
We’re here to keep your smile healthy and comfortable—book now for expert care.
Associations
Our dentists are members of reputable dental associations, including the Australian Dental Association WA (ADAWA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). We are also accredited by QIP, meaning our practice adheres to industry guidelines and regulations.
We accept all health funds, claimable on the spot for your convenience. We are preferred providers with HBF, HCF, CBHS and NIB, meaning you can maximise your rebate.
We also provide interest free payment plan options via The Tooth Market’s Fund My Dental. We also participate in government aided programs such as the Child Dental Benefits Scheme and provide top quality treatment for Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card holders.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Serene Ong
Dentist
Dr. Ben Luu
Dentist
Dr. Ashleigh Furfaro
Dentist
Dr. Amanda Lau
Dentist
Kelly Jones
Dental Assistant
Samantha St Johnston
Dental Assistant
Dry Mouth FAQ's
Can dry mouth damage my teeth?
Yes. Reduced saliva makes it easier for bacteria to thrive, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Is dry mouth a normal part of ageing?
While it’s more common with age, it's not inevitable. Often, medications or health issues are the cause.
Can children get dry mouth too?
Yes, particularly if they’re taking medications or have certain health conditions. A dental checkup can help identify the issue early.
What’s the best toothpaste for dry mouth?
We often recommend toothpaste with added fluoride and no sodium lauryl sulfate. Ask us for recommendations.
Should I use mouthwash for dry mouth?
Yes, but choose one without alcohol. Alcohol-based rinses can worsen dryness.
Contact Us
Contact our caring dentists in Canning Vale today with any questions about dry mouth or to book your consultation to start your journey to a healthy smile.