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Xerostomia is a side effect of many medications that are prescribed to the elderly. More than 500 medications cause xerostomia, making it a very common oral side effect. It is important that the geriatric population is educated on xerostomia and how to treat it.

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The oral manifestations of xerostomia include the oral cavity essentially feeling dry or dehydrated because of the reduced salivary flow. Individuals may report of a dry, leather like tongue, difficulty in swallowing and speech, halitosis and burning red tongue. Individuals with xerostomia may have an altered taste of food. Xerostomia may not seem like a significant concern for the Geriatric population, but it can decrease their quality of life. We use saliva to speak, eat, taste and swallow. Having a decreased salivary flow can alter the taste of food and make it hard to swallow. Hypo salivation may result in gastrointestinal issues because of the inability to properly digest their food. Also, with a decreased saliva flow, this means less food is being washed away in the oral cavity. The bacteria in biofilm left in the mouth contributes to cavities. This places the geriatric population at an extreme caries (decay) risk, caries preventions must be addressed to prevent root and coronal cavities. Geriatric clients whom have no teeth are also effected by xerostomia. A decreased saliva flow may negatively impact the ability for dentures to secure in the oral cavity. This makes it uncomfortable for them to wear the dentures and effect their chewing and speaking.

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There are many ways to manage xerostomia. Since many medications contribute to this, having the Geriatric client see their medical physician to discuss alternative medications that cause less xerostomia would be ideal. There are medications to stimulate saliva flow like Pilocarpine. Frequent intake of water can help produce saliva flow. There are products like xylitol gum and lozenges and Biotene mouth rinses that stimulate salivary flow. Meticulous home care can assist with Xerostomia and help prevent caries. The use of a high dose take home fluoride gel may be recommended. Moreover, the Geriatric client must be put on a frequent re-care interval (3-4 months) for scaling and fluoride application.

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Where to buy products to help Xerostomia

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Where to buy products to help Xerostomia

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- Walmart
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Rexall
- Loblaws