I am 50 yrs old and for about the last year, my saliva has turned very sticky. It is like this all the time. Day or night does not matter. It's awful in that I have trouble speaking and I am very self conscious. I went to my GP and to my dentist. Both had no clue. What should I do?
Hello, You are describing a change called xerostomia or dry mouth. There are may dental products such as toothpaste, rinses, sprays and gum that may offer relief. Try these and keep well hydrated. Drink plenty of water and then more water. Both your GP and Dentist would screen for systemic conditions and evaluate medications taken for this potential side effect since you have reported this condition. You can consider visiting an oral surgeon to evaluate your salivary function. Disorders of the salivary glands can result in reduced salivary flow. Maintain good oral hygiene. Dry mouth can often be associated with an increase in sensitivity, tissue inflammation and increased decay. Plaque will become thicker and harder to remove causing you to increase your daily dental care routine. Make sure you are not breathing through your mouth rather than nose. This can be a factor contributing to drying out your mouth. Thank you for your inquiry. I hope my suggestions offer you some relief.
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What Causes Sticky Saliva?
Hello, You are describing a change called xerostomia or dry mouth. There are may dental products such as toothpaste, rinses, sprays and gum that may offer relief. Try these and keep well hydrated. Drink plenty of water and then more water. Both your GP and Dentist would screen for systemic conditions and evaluate medications taken for this potential side effect since you have reported this condition. You can consider visiting an oral surgeon to evaluate your salivary function. Disorders of the salivary glands can result in reduced salivary flow. Maintain good oral hygiene. Dry mouth can often be associated with an increase in sensitivity, tissue inflammation and increased decay. Plaque will become thicker and harder to remove causing you to increase your daily dental care routine. Make sure you are not breathing through your mouth rather than nose. This can be a factor contributing to drying out your mouth. Thank you for your inquiry. I hope my suggestions offer you some relief.