Question

Your client asks what can be done to alleviate his dry mouth. All of the following are treatments for xerostomia, EXCEPT one. Which one is the EXCEPTION?

1) Increase fluid intake
2) Chew sugar-free gum
3) Avoid caffeine and alcohol
4) Use mouthwash with alcohol

Answer 1

The EXCEPTION to treatments for xerostomia is using mouthwash with alcohol, which worsens dry mouth. Hydration, sugar-free gum, and avoiding dehydrating substances help. Biotene toothpaste is also effective against xerostomia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The EXCEPTION among the treatments for xerostomia (dry mouth) is the use of mouthwash with alcohol. Alcohol can contribute to the dryness of the mouth, exacerbating the problem of xerostomia. Instead, treatments like increasing fluid intake, chewing sugar-free gum, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can be helpful.

Additionally, the use of certain toothpaste brands like Biotene, which contains ingredients that minimize tartar formation and have been shown to alleviate dry mouth symptoms, can be beneficial. These findings are supported by two randomized clinical trials indicating Biotene's effectiveness in relieving xerostomia.