Xerostomia
(Dry Mouth & Thick Saliva)

Dry mouth and thick saliva are common side effects of radiation therapy and/or surgery to your mouth or throat.  If your salivary glands are in the area that is receiving radiation therapy, this can damage them and affect the production of saliva.

The impact on saliva production may resolve once treatment is finished, or be long lasting depending on the amount of radiation your salivary glands receive. 

Surgery may also impact your saliva production, particularly if salivary glands have been disrupted or removed due to the site of a tumour. 

Saliva is very important as it helps you chew, swallow, and talk, as well as protects your teeth from decay. When surgery and/or radiation therapy changes the way saliva is produced, you may notice that your mouth feels dry or that your saliva becomes thicker and may taste acidic.

Strategies to help with dry mouth & thick saliva include:

• Keep the mouth moist by sipping water regularly.

• Use mouth moisturisers such as dry mouth gels, sprays, mouthwashes, lozenges and toothpastes, which are available at chemists and some supermarkets. The PAH recommends the use of products without alcohol as an ingredient. 

• Perform regular mouth care routine (see radiation caries section)

• Chew sugar-free gum, which can stimulate saliva production.

• Use humidification (steaming) to thin saliva. This could be self-humidification such as a hot shower or may involve hiring a nebuliser or humidifier.

• Add sauces / gravies to your foods or choose foods that are naturally moist and avoid dry, flaky foods. 

Whilst receiving treatment, avoid things that may make your mouth drier such as:

• Caffeine.

• Cigarettes and alcohol.

• Spicy or salty foods.

• Sugary drinks.

• Being dehydrated. 

If you require further assistance with managing Xerostomia please speak to an Oncology Nurse or seek a consultation with a Speech Pathologist.

Page reviewed 5th May 2021