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Dry Mouth
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Jul 09, 2011 - 9:11 pm
What is the bast thing to do for dry mouth. Has anyone used saliva substitutes? Radiation to his neck has caused my husband to have a dry mouth. He has a hardtime breaking down solid foods. Any info would be appreciated. |
Joined: Feb 2007
This is what Chemocare has to say on the subject, with brand names & all!
Things you can do for treating dry mouth:
Keep mouth and lips moist:
* Rinse mouth with water frequently (every 2 hrs while awake & when awake during the night). May add salt or baking soda (1/2 to 1 teaspoon in 8 ounces of water).
* Use saliva substitute (commercially available).
* Biotene® products can be purchased without a prescription. Products available for treating dry mouth are; mouthwash, toothpaste, as well as, chewing gum that has the pH of saliva.
* Oralbalance® moisturizing gel can be applied to the mouth or tongue and acts as a moisturizing coat.
* Apply lip moisturizer often (i.e. Chapstick®).
* Suck on tart hard candies (lemon drops, Jolly Ranchers®). Watch sugar content with candy - can produce cavities.
* Use cool mist room humidifier at night in the bedroom. A humidifier on the furnace doesn't provide enough humidity for treating dry mouth.
As far as the hard candies go, I know Jolly Rancher makes good sugarless candy, so do Lifesavers.
Joined: May 2011
Thanks for the info. I will check on getting some of these things. I bought lemon drops today and I do have jolly ranchers. Will lock at Walmart for saliva substitutes etc. Thanks again.