What causes dry mouths?
There are 3 major salivary glands (submandibular, sublingual and parotid) and thousands of minor salivary glands throughout the mouth. All of these are stimulated by the autonomic nervous system. Stimulation by the nervous system causes saliva to be released into the mouth. Saliva can be either watery, or of a thicker consistency depending on what type of stimulation occurs. Causes of xerostomia include many common medications, Sjögren’s Syndrome, some cancer therapy, and other systemic problems. Medications Xerostomia most commonly occurs as a side effect of medications. When the site of the medication being used acts upon the autonomic nervous system, there is a possibility the individual will have a dry mouth. Drug types which have been related with xerostomia include antihistamines, antihypertensives, tricyclic antidepressants, and sedatives. Consuming a greater number of medications (as is common in the elderly) results in a higher chance of having a dry mouth. Recreational drugs
