Xerostomia: The Effect of Dry Mouth on Patients

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Xerostomia and quality of life for patients

For some patients, dry mouth can simply be a nuisance; for others it can have more serious health consequences.1

Xerostomia and its effect on patients’ quality of life

Dry mouth symptoms

Physiological

  • Dry and sticky oral mucosa2–3
  • Dental caries2–4
  • Secondary infection: candidiasis2–4
  • Erythema, thinning or cracking of the oral cavity2–3

Psychological

  • Decreased quality of life3,5,6
  • Embarrassment7
  • Withdrawal from social situations7

For some patients, dry mouth can simply be a nuisance; for others it can have more serious health consequences.1

Depending on the cause, dry mouth may be permanent or temporary, and symptoms may be physiological or psychological, ranging from mild to severe.2

79% of surveyed dry mouth patients* said they would be motivated to treat their symptoms if they understood the potential oral health consequences8

*n=910 patients

Patient imagery and symptoms

Dry mouth can have a negative social and emotional impact on your patients’ quality of life3,5,6,9

Dry mouth can also be a significant health problem, as it may impact nutrition and social well-being, as well as contribute to physical problems.2,6 Almost half of xerostomia patients reported being impacted frequently by physical pain, psychological discomfort and disability.10

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