Dry mouth (xerostomia) develops as a result of aging, diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, or especially as a side effect of medications for hypertension, antidepressants, and chemotherapy. Saliva contains bicarbonate ions that neutralize acids in the mouth and provides mechanical cleaning by constantly washing the teeth; it also nourishes the enamel with its calcium and phosphate content. When saliva production decreases, the oral environment remains constantly acidic, and the patient experiences aggressive caries outbreaks, known as “rampant caries,” which affect all teeth within a few months. To prevent this, the patient is advised to use artificial saliva sprays and xylitol chewing gum to stimulate saliva flow. Most importantly, high-concentration neutral fluoride gels or amorphous calcium phosphate creams (bio-substances) are used at home. The patient is instructed to avoid anything acidic during the day and to only sip alkaline water frequently to provide artificial protection to the enamel.
