Dry Mouth: An Emerging Epidemic

Dry mouth is a common and emerging concern among the young and old alike, causing significant discomfort, oropharyngeal infections and impairing the quality of life of the individual. The etiology ranges from simple obstruction of salivary gland ducts, physiological stress and anxiety to plethora of underlying salivary gland pathologies and systemic conditions. This review is focused to discuss the various clinical conditions predisposing to dry mouth. Understanding the etiology of the condition prompts appropriate early intervention to treat the underlying pathology, alleviate symptoms and prevent undesirable consequences that compromise the quality of life of an individual. Prompt diagnosis helps to alleviate symptoms in both curable and non-curable conditions contributing to dry mouth.