What causes dry mouth, and when does it need treatment?
Quick answer
Dry mouth can be related to medicines, conditions affecting saliva, or some cancer treatments. Persistent dryness needs assessment because it affects eating and speaking and increases decay risk. Do not change medicines yourself.
Details
Finding the cause
Tell your clinician how long dryness has lasted and list all medicines, supplements and other symptoms. A medicine review or tests may be needed. Persistent dry mouth is not an inevitable normal part of ageing.
What may help?
Sips of water and sugar-free gum, when safe to chew, may help, alongside avoiding tobacco and alcohol and caring for teeth. Saliva substitutes or other treatments depend on the cause. Saliva-stimulating medicines should not be recommended indiscriminately.
Related question: How can I prevent tooth decay?.
Note: This answer is for educational purposes and does not replace a consultation with a specialist who examines your case in person. Do not use it for self-diagnosis.