Why Is Your Mouth So Dry After 60?

Do you drink water and still find your mouth dry again right away — or wake up at night feeling parched? After 60, that's common, as saliva production slows down. Why does it happen? Medicines are the most common cause. Blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics can all reduce saliva. With age, the salivary glands themselves weaken, and drinking too little water or breathing through your mouth adds to it. Diabetes or Sjögren's syndrome can also be behind it. It's more than discomfort Saliva doesn't just wet your mouth — it protects your teeth. With less saliva, cavities and gum disease become more likely, speaking and swallowing get harder, and bad breath and taste changes can appear. What you can do at home Sip water often, a little at a time. Keep a water bottle by your bed so you can drink at night. Sugar-free gum or lozenges (xylitol) stimulate saliva. Run a humidifier at night. If you breathe through your mouth, practicing nose breathing helps too. Avoid mouthwash with alcohol — it dries your mouth further. See a doctor or dentist if Dry mouth lasts for weeks You have sores or pain in your mouth Swallowing becomes difficult Your salivary glands swell, or your eyes are dry too (it could be Sjögren's syndrome) You suspect a new medicine (don't stop it on your own — talk to your doctor or pharmacist) Dry mouth is usually a common, manageable symptom. A sip of water, sugar-free gum, a humidifier — small habits that keep your mouth comfortable. Reference: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, "Dry Mouth" — dry mouth is common in older adults, often caused by medicines, and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Everyday Items That Support the Habits in This Post

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Nothing below treats or cures dry mouth. These items support the habits in this post — sipping water, stimulating saliva, and keeping the air moist at night. If you notice any warning sign in this post, see a doctor or dentist.

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